By Junex Doronio

MANILA – Tingog Partylist, led by Rep. Yedda Romualdez and Rep. Jude Acidre, commemorates its 12th anniversary, marking over a decade of dedicated service, advocacy, and community engagement.

Originally founded in Leyte as Tingog Leytehon in 2012, it has since evolved to serve the entire Eastern Visayas as Tingog Sinirangan. Following its success in the 2019 elections, it has expanded its reach nationwide, to further champion the voices of marginalized communities by bringing government services closer to people, as Tingog Partylist.

“As we celebrate this anniversary, we reflect on the progress we’ve made and the challenges we’ve faced. Our commitment to serving the people remains unwavering, and we look forward to continuing our work to uplift communities and empower individuals,” Rep. Yedda Romualdez stated.

Tingog Partylist stands firm in its advocacy for socio-economic development, social justice, and human rights, with a strong focus on the rights of women and children, access to healthcare, and education.

Since its establishment, Tingog Partylist has proposed over 500 bills, many of which have been signed into law. Reflecting its dedication to meaningful legislative action, some notable laws include:

RA 11510 (Institutionalizing Alternative Learning System in the Basic Education for out-of-school children and adults): Providing timely support for the basic learning needs of out-of-school children, including indigenous peoples and adults in special cases.

RA 11648 (Statutory Rape Amending RAs 3815 and 7610 of RPC and SPC):

Providing a stronger protection against rape and sexual exploitation and abuse, increasing the age for determining the commission of statutory rape.

RA 11934 (Sim Card Registration Act): A measure aimed at curbing cybercriminal activities.

RA 11967 (Internet Transactions Act): Protecting online consumers and merchants engaged in e-commerce.

RA 11983 (New Philippine Passport Act): Streamlining the processes for issuing and renewing Philippine passports.

These legislative efforts underscore Tingog Partylist’s commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos and ensuring that essential rights and services are accessible to all.

In addition to its significant legislative achievements, Tingog Partylist is actively responding to the needs of communities affected by natural disasters. Tingog has consistently mobilized assistance for victims of calamities, including the recent typhoons Carina, Enteng, and Julian, as well as major fire incidents in Tondo, Cavite, and Muntinlupa.

Tingog Partylist has established strong partnerships with government agencies, working closely with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to extend financial assistance through programs Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS).

The party also collaborates with the Department of Health (DOH) to provide essential healthcare assistance to those in need.

To enhance accessibility to essential services, Tingog Partylist has partnered with various district representatives to establish Tingog Centers. Currently, there are 140 operational Tingog Centers, providing vital support to the Filipino people.

By prioritizing both legislative initiatives and community support, Tingog Partylist continues to demonstrate its dedication to improving the lives of Filipinos, ensuring that help is always at hand during times of crisis.

“This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but also a commitment to our future. We are dedicated to creating more opportunities for dialogue and collaboration among the people we serve, ensuring that every voice is heard,” Rep. Jude Acidre noted.

As Tingog Partylist celebrates its 12th anniversary, it reaffirms its commitment, not only to the people of Leyte and Eastern Visayas, but to all Filipinos across the nation. With deep gratitude for the support received over the years, Tingog is eager to embark on new initiatives that will further strengthen its advocacy and impact for inclusive and sustainable development.

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