BAGUIO CITY, Philippines –“Christmas is near, pero ang laban para sa transparency at good governance ay hindi dapat natatapos.”

Thus, declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong in a recent social media post.

“Habang papalapit ang Pasko at ang huling araw ng Ber month ngayong taon, huwag nating hayaang matabunan ng selebrasyon ang ating panawagan para sa malinis na pamahalaan,” he stated.

The Mayor added: “Ang hiling natin ngayong Pasko: Wakasan ang korapsyon; Panagutin ang mga tiwali; at Itaguyod ang tapat at makataong paglilingkod.”

He also urged the Marcos administration to move faster in holding politicians allegedly involved in corruption accountable.

Lawmakers linked to irregularities should face consequences for benefiting from anomalous schemes, Magalong said.

Recently, Magalong urges public servants to “choose integrity over corruption”.

“In the realm of governance and public service, true leadership is measured not by power, but by moral courage.”

He said that amid challenges, criticism, and the persistent presence of wrongdoing, “leaders are called to uphold what is just, honest, and compassionate.”

“Choosing integrity over corruption, service over self-interest, and truth over deceit is how we overcome the forces that undermine good governance,” he stressed.

Magalong said that when public servants respond to negativity with principled action and ethical leadership, “they not only elevate themselves but also the entire community they serve.”

He is a staunch advocate for good governance where public institutions manage public affairs, public resources, and human rights in a transparent, accountable, and efficient manner, free from abuse and corruption.- (Gaby B. Keith)