21/02/2026
Morning Session
Regional Liga Congress 2026- Region VIII
Summit Hotel, Tacloban City
The second day of the Regional Liga Congress 2026- Region VIII continued this morning with an inspiring and meaningful program attended by Liga officials and barangay leaders from across Eastern Visayas. The gathering further strengthened unity and reinforced the shared commitment of local leaders to advance responsive, inclusive, and people-centered governance.
The morning session opened with a welcome and keynote message from Hon. Esteban V. Laurente, Regional President of Liga ng mga Barangay -Region VIII, who underscored the vital role of barangay leaders as frontliners of governance. He emphasized their responsibility in guiding communities toward resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable development, reminding participants that empowered grassroots leadership is essential in addressing the needs of the people.
The congress was honored by the presence of distinguished speakers who delivered messages aligned with the theme “Empowering Communities: An Inclusive Approach to Disaster, Environment, and Health.”
Dr. Noel O. Arteche, Licensing Officer V of the Department of Health – Eastern Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH EVCHD), highlighted the importance of strengthening local health systems and ensuring that barangays remain proactive partners in promoting accessible and quality healthcare services.
Representing PBGen Jason L. Capoy, Regional Director of Police Regional Office VIII (PRO R8), PCol Noelito A. Getigan, City Director of the Tacloban City Police Office, conveyed the Philippine National Police’s continued support for barangay initiatives. The message emphasized strong collaboration between barangay officials and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and order, enhancing public safety, and fostering community trust.
Participants were also inspired by a special video message from the National Liga President, Maria Katrina Jessica G. Dy, who reaffirmed the national organization’s commitment to supporting regional and provincial chapters. She encouraged barangay leaders to remain steadfast in their dedication to public service and to continuously strengthen their leadership capacities.
An additional message of solidarity was delivered by Ma. Martina L. Gimenez, Provincial President of the Province of Leyte and Executive Vice-President of Liga National, who highlighted the importance of unity, shared responsibility, and cohesive leadership among Liga members in achieving meaningful and lasting community impact.
The morning session reflected strong partnership among health authorities, law enforcement, and Liga leaders, underscoring the shared goal of building safer, healthier, and more empowered communities throughout Region VIII.
The Liga ng mga Barangay- Samar Chapter, led by Hon. Ruby Delector, Provincial Liga President, actively participated in the program, reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, learning, and responsive governance. Through engagements like this, the Samar Chapter continues to strengthen its role in advancing inclusive and sustainable development at the barangay level.