Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian endorsed the senatorial bid of House Deputy Speaker and Las Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar.
During the flag raising ceremony at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela on Monday, Gatchalian cited Villar’s impressive background in public service, with both having worked together at the House of Representatives during the 18th Congress.
“If given the chance to serve in the Senate, I believe she can continue to put forward the welfare of our youth and entrepreneurs. Age is not a hindrance when you do public service; what is important is the heart to serve. And we have seen that (trait) in the Villars in terms of public service,” Gatchalian said.
Gatchalian also noted that the youth have become trusted leaders of this generation, making public service more inclusive and dynamic amid the changing times.
“Age is not a hindrance for us to serve even in high posts in the government. Before these (posts) are reserved for the very few, but now, even in Congress, even in the Cabinet, and now even, in the Senate, the younger generation is already there,” he added.
Villar, who is the youngest senatorial candidate in the upcoming May elections, underscored anew the importance of education and how an educated population contributes to the growth of the country.
She also agreed with Gatchalian that it is time for the youth to take up their roles in governance.
“If we have to move forward, in our age, whether we are students, Gen-Z, Gen X or Millennials, it is now time for us to participate in looking for solutions for the (challenges) of our country,” she added.
“It is easy for us to simply observe and give our thoughts on what should be done. But honestly, for our country to progress, we should all — young or old— do our part for our country… and be part of the solution,” Villar added.
Villar told the students that they will still face many challenges as they pursue their dreams, but emphasized the importance of staying strong through every adversity as they strive to reach new heights in their careers and personal lives.
“In life, we will be scared of adversities that we may need to confront… because we may think we are still young… but we can do everything regardless of our age,” she added.
Villar expressed her gratitude to Gatchalian, PLV President Nedeña Torralba, Pastor Robert Reyes, city and school officials for the warm welcome.
