Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday reaffirmed his commitment to Aurora’s development, emphasizing that no province in the country will be left behind in the pursuit of progress.
Speaking at the 46th Founding Anniversary of the Province of Aurora and the 137th Birth Anniversary of Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon at the provincial capitol grounds in Baler, Speaker Romualdez vowed to support initiatives that would uplift the province and its people.
Joining the celebration were Rep. Rommel Rico Angara, Governor Reynante Tolentino, Vice Governor Jennifer Araña, and Gabriel Quezon Avanceña, grandson of President Manuel Luis Quezon. Also in attendance were senior lawmakers, provincial officials, civil servants, business leaders, farmers, fisherfolk, students, and residents of Aurora.
Prominent national figures such as Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker Camille Villar, and Reps. Lani Mercado Revilla, Emerson Pascual, Carmelo Lazatin, Joseph Tan, Loreto Amante, and Faustino Michael Carlos Dy also graced the occasion.
A Commitment to Progress
“As Speaker of the House, I stand before you not to make promises, but to make a commitment. Walang maiiwan. Aurora will not be left behind,” Speaker Romualdez declared, underscoring his dedication to the province’s advancement.
He outlined key areas for development, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
“We will work to ensure better roads and bridges so farmers can bring their harvest to markets faster, more schools and scholarships so the youth of Aurora can reach their full potential, stronger healthcare services so no family has to choose between medicine and food, and enhanced support for agriculture and fisheries to sustain the lifeblood of Aurora,” he stated.
Emphasizing inclusive growth, he insisted that progress must extend beyond urban centers to every town, barangay, and home.
“Walang probinsyang mahuhuli sa pag-unlad,” he stressed.
Honoring Aurora’s Legacy
Speaker Romualdez paid tribute to the province’s rich history and the enduring legacy of Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon, a symbol of selfless service and dedication.
“Aurora is a province of great beauty and even greater history. It is a land of waves and mountains, of resilience and quiet strength. But above all, Aurora is a land of service—true, selfless, and unwavering,” he said.
Highlighting the province’s significant contributions to the country, he asserted that Aurora deserves even greater investment and attention.
“Aurora has given so much to this country—its resources, its culture, its heroes. And today, I say to you: Aurora deserves more,” he declared.
Romualdez also underscored the values that define Aurorans—hard work, perseverance, compassion, and unity.
“Being an Auroran is not just about being born here—it is about carrying these values. Sipag. Tiyaga. Malasakit. Bayanihan. It is about working hard, trusting one another, and lifting each other.”
Paying homage to Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon, he described her as “a woman who did not seek the spotlight but whose light continues to shine in the hearts of her people.”
“She led with compassion, served with dignity, and gave her life for others. That is the spirit of Aurora. That is the spirit we celebrate today,” he added.
Concluding his speech, Speaker Romualdez called on public servants and the people of Aurora to work together in realizing the province’s full potential.
“Let us renew our promise to Aurora. Let us work together. Let us dream bigger. Let us make sure that Aurora continues to rise—mas matatag, mas maunlad, mas handa sa kinabukasan,” he urged.
His message resonated with the audience, reinforcing the House leader’s unwavering support for Aurora’s continued progress and prosperity.
