People will always come first.
As the former Director General of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and one of the principal authors of the Special Economic Zones Law that established PEZA, I have gained invaluable insights into how economic policies can uplift communities and drive progress.
Throughout my tenure, I have always championed initiatives that place our people — especially the poor, indigenous communities, the unemployed, and the underemployed — at the heart of our economic and environmental strategies. Supporting these vital sectors is key to building a more inclusive and sustainable society.
From my time as a lawmaker in Congress to leading PEZA, I have consistently pushed for economic reforms that prioritize the needs of the underprivileged. By spearheading transformative policies, I worked to adapt our systems to the ever-evolving demands of a developing nation, ensuring that opportunities reach every Filipino. Together, we must continue to prioritize the well-being of our people as the foundation of true progress.
Service is a legacy.
Accolades and achievements are meaningful only when they reflect a genuine dedication to service. Being a public servant for more than three decades, these experiences across various fields have shaped my dedication to better serve the people.
As the first female general in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Force and president of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines (ARRAPI), I learned the challenges of public service at a young age. Leading a military institution traditionally dominated by men has honed my courage, determination, and work ethic — qualities that I continue to uphold today.
These experiences have not only strengthened my resolve but also instilled in me the values of transformative leadership; one that is grounded in empathy, commitment, and a relentless drive to uplift others. However, all the accolades in the world mean little without true compassion and a heart for the people. That is what truly drives me.
#ChingForChange
My journey in public service has been deeply shaped by my life experiences and the lessons they taught me. Each role I’ve held reflects my unwavering commitment to serving the people.
Meeting my husband, Figurado O. Plaza, the former Mayor of Butuan City, further inspired me to pursue my aspirations of helping others and serving the community. His unwavering dedication to public service motivated me to follow a similar path.
After becoming the youngest lady Representative (at the age of 26) in the 8th and 9th Congresses of the House of Representatives, I became the acting house speaker for the Women's Month Congressional Celebration, the Assistant Majority Leader in the 9th Congress, the Chairperson of the Committee on Tourism and Committee on Public Information, and the Vice-Chairperson of the Committee on National Defense.
Visions & Platform
SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE
Creation of Agro-Industrial, Manufacturing, IT and Tourism Economic Zones
Providing tax and non-taxed incentives to investors.
Revise and enhance tax incentives to attract more investors.
Creation of food terminals and cold storage facilities in Lumbocan and Bancasi.
JOBS AND BUSINESSES
Create a new local tax rate, reasonable and responsible taxes (for 200K or less income per annum, tax is free!)
Construction of three-story public markets including Langihan Public Market, Libertad, and Ampayon Public Markets.
Support micro and small businesses in order to help generate more jobs.
HEALTH
Create BMC into a People's Hospital.
Free medicine and hospitalization.
TRANSPORT SECTOR
Provide options to tricycle drivers on tricycle modernization program.
Assess the tricycle routes and coding schemes.
EDUCATION
Free meals and school supplies to elementary students.
Provide school bus service to public school students.
Scholarship to qualified college students.
Provide dormitories to college students.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
Restore the glorious economic past of Butuan City and bring it back as the center of commerce, trade, and cultural activities.
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