BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong is urging the public to stand by the truth and base their opinions and decisions on evidence.

“Piliin nating manindigan sa katotohanan, magpakatino sa diskurso, at magpasya batay sa ebidensya. Doon nagsisimula ang mabuting pamamahala: sa tapang na igalang ang mga katotohanan, hindi lang ang mga opinyon,” the Mayor stated in a social media post.

He pointed out that each individual has their own views on various issues and that everybody’s opinions are respected in a free society like ours.

“Ngunit sa paggawa ng desisyon—lalo na sa pamamahala—hindi maaaring pantayan ng opinyon ang bigat at kredibilidad ng malinaw na datos at katotohanan,” the Mayor said.

He stressed: “Kapag ang mga impormasyon ay naipresenta na at napatunayan, tungkulin nating pakinggan at unawain ang mga ito, kahit hindi ito tugma sa ating personal na paniniwala.”

“With integrity, unity, and perseverance, let us move forward with purpose and confidence, building a better Baguio for everyone,” the Mayor added. (Gaby B. Keith)