The Lady Local Legislators’ League of the Philippines, Inc. (Four-L Philippines) Bicol Chapter gathered at the Pepperland Hotel Event Center for its Regional Assembly and Elections on July 28, 2023, marking a significant event for women in legislation in the region. As part of their commitment to empowering women leaders, the Four-L convened this assembly to foster collaboration and elect new representatives to champion the rights of women and children and foster an environment sensitive to their concerns.

The activity was graced by Hon. Eva Josephine Ribaya, the chair of the Committee on Women, Children and Family and GAD, Hon. Glenda Ong-Bongao, Vice Governor of the Province of Albay and Regional Convener of the Four-L Bicol Chapter, and Hon. Edcel Greco A.B. Lagman, Governor of the Province of Albay.

DILG R5 supported the occasion through a Solidarity Message from Regional Director (RD) Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober, Jr., CESO V, delivered by LGOO VI Maria Cecilia V. Del Puerto, the MLGOO of Malilipot, Albay. In his message, RD Escober underscored the significant role of women leaders in pursuing good governance, sustainable development, and inclusive policies. He also called on the attendees’ cooperation towards achieving the Seal of Good Local Governance (or SGLG), which symbolizes the integrity and good performance of local governments. He emphasized that the women legislators of Bicol are an integral part of the transformative journey of transparency, efficiency, and accountability within their local governance structures.

The highlight of the assembly was the election of new representatives to the 4L Bicol Chapter, where the representatives are expected to spearhead initiatives that foster unity among its members towards the organization’s aspirations, while promoting and respecting diversity and enhancing their members’ capabilities in the attainment of their goals.

President: Councilor Maria Theresa Gonzales (Sorsogon)
Vice President: Vice Governor Elisa Olga Kho (Masbate)
Secretary: Vice Mayor Bernadette Asutilla (Camarines Norte)
Treasurer: Councilor Lourdes Berces (Albay)
Auditor: Board Member Vanessa Señar (Camarines Sur)
PIO: Vice Mayor Dr. Arlynn Arcilla (Catanduanes)
Board of Directors:
ALBAY

  1. Vice Mayor Gemma Ongjoco
  2. Councilor Purisima Nocedo

CAMARINES NORTE

  1. Vice Mayor Ma. Cristina Arevalo
  2. Vice Mayor Jeanna Yapyuco

SORSOGON

  1. Councilor Ma. Cristina Abetria
  2. Vice Mayor Isabel Esmeria

CATANDUANES

  1. Councilor Delia Lazaro
  2. Councilor Salvacion Isuela

MASBATE

  1. Vice Mayor Leny Arcenas
  2. Councilor Chinel Delavin

CAMARINES SUR

  1. Board Member Donna Ann Oñate
  2. Councilor Katherine Dominique Lagrimas