For Tanauan City, Batangas Mayor Sonny Perez Collantes, his famous and quotable words “Walang Maiiwan” are more than just a quip; they are a daily pledge to himself, a sharp reminder of his mission for his people, and a task he is eager to undertake every day.
Under his leadership, it is evident that he reached out to various sectors and delivered tangible assistance that not only benefits the present but also the future, such as education, sports, health, infrastructure, livelihood, and numerous others. With these facts in hand, it is unquestionably the case that his words are a sacred action that he upheld and which persists to this day.
One of the living proofs is his priority of “Walang Job Order sa ating Pamahalaang Lungsod ang Maiiwan”, in which he paved the way and made history by implementing for the first time an annual salary increase for Tanauan City Government Job Order employees.
Every year, he strives to boost the salary two times: from January to June and July to December. Mayor Sonny Collantes’ initiative is rooted in his desire to give back, citing the number of years employees have dedicated to serving the public. Likewise, these people were not granted regular posts due to the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) eligibility requirements.
It is worth mentioning that he is the only mayor in Tanauan who sets goals for employees, particularly in terms of providing benefits such as a birthday cash gift, monthly rice distribution, medical services, and advocating for their workplace rights.
“Walang paglagyan ang emosyon na aking nadarama noong una palang na makita kong ganito na pala karami ang mga kababayang nabigyan natin ng pagkakataon at oportunidad sa Pamahalaang Lungsod, mga kababayan nating nagbago ang pamumuhay at prinsipyo. Bilang mga katuwang ko sa pagsisilbi sa Lungsod ng Tanauan, sila ang tunay na saksi ng mga ginawa at binago natin sa City Hall.” Mayor Sonny Collantes left a heartfelt message for the Job Order employees.
In his new term, one thing remains constant: his vow to the people, “Walang Maiiwan at Hindi Pababayaan.” For Mayor Sonny, a happy employee equates to a productive employee, and in order to succeed in this vision, one must assure ongoing support for them.
In the future, may the cities and municipalities in the Philippines be as warm and receptive as Tanauan City. One in which no one is left behind and everyone is geared towards success.