‘A legislator crafts laws, does not implement projects or distribute cash assistance’ – BM Kitongan reminds public

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Kalinga Board Member Emilio T. Kitongan reminded the public that the primary duty of provincial legislators is to craft ordinances that improve the lives of their constituents—not to implement projects or distribute financial assistance, as many often assume.

The reminder came during a public consultation on the proposed “Kalinga Trade Fair for Farmers Ordinance of 2025” held on October 17 at the Legislative Building in Bulanao, Tabuk City.

Kitongan, a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Agriculture, said the ordinance serves as a concrete example of the board members’ real work, countering the common notion that they are idle simply because they do not implement visible projects.

“In reality, it is not the job of board members to implement projects or distribute cash assistance,” Kitongan said.

He explained that many people tend to misunderstand the role of provincial legislators, often judging their performance based on tangible projects rather than their legislative output.

“The legislative body is responsible for making laws, while the executive branch implements and enforces them—both working together for the common good,” he added.

Quoting in Ilocano, Kitongan said:

“Daytoy nga ordinance (Kalinga Trade Fair for Farmers Ordinance of 2025), at least ada ti mang-witness. Kasi ti kaadwan gamin, nu maminsan ket kunada, ‘Anya ngay araramiden dagita nga board members?’ Nu awan ti inted ta nga project, ibaga da ‘Awan dayta, haan tayo kasapulan dayta nga board member.’ So this is the work of board members—proposing ordinances and doing what benefits the people.”

Kitongan also praised the proposed measure authored by Board Member Christopher Dona-al, describing it as an example of meaningful legislation aimed at protecting the welfare of Kalinga farmers, especially those affected by unfair trade practices and price manipulation.

“Kakailyan, I am hopeful that this ordinance will truly help our farmers,” he said.

The legislator further invited farmers across Kalinga to participate in the farmers’ forum scheduled on October 27 at the Kalinga Astrodome, which aims to gather opinions, experiences, and suggestions from farmers for the finalization of the proposed ordinance.