Alabat is an island municipality in Quezon. In English, the word alabat means baluster, which is a contraption found in old houses with staircases that serve as a guard rail. In recent years, Alabat town has experienced phenomenal progress—higher income per family, increased livelihood opportunities, much improved health services, no insurgents, zero drug incidence, zero teenage pregnancy, among other metrics.
The success story is more than just economic growth. It is about dedication to God and good leadership of its mayor, General Fernando “Andy” Mesa, one of the most hardworking Army officer I had the opportunity to serve when I was in the intelligence service. He is on his third and last term as the mayor of Alabat. The municipal resolution he is most proud of was the one that dedicated the town of Alabat to God (“Bayan ng Diyos”). The battlecry of the town is Mapayapa (Peaceful), Maunlad (Progressive), Maganda (Beautiful), at Masayang Bayan ng Diyos (Happy town of God).
Applying his 38-year experience in the Army and following the advice of his good friend Shiela Encabo of LandBank, Mayor Andy developed a vision and mission statement for the municipality anchored on four pillars—Health, Education, Livelihood, Peace and Order (HELP). As a result, approval of town projects have to hurdle two simple criteria —(1) does it uplift the quality of life of the people? (2) is it pleasing to God? Some of the projects Mayor Andy has initiated include annual medical missions with the assistance of doctors from UP PGH, the creation of evacuation centers, livelihood projects using coconut, cacao, honey and other agricultural products. Some of the projects the community has initiated include a Youth Leadership Summit where the values of honesty, responsibility and cooperation are shared and a Bible Fest—a parade where characters in the Bible are portrayed and taught to the townsfolk.
When I visited the island municipality for the first time, I saw how healthy sugar is made from coconut sap (lowest glycemic content) and how cacao fruits are made into unadulterated chocolate. I was fortunate to have witnessed an event (Novem-beer Fest) where the community enjoyed much food and drinks to celebrate the success of town athletes. I also took a bike ride around the narrow streets of the town. What I noticed during my short trip was that the people were so happy, friendly, hospitable and godly. Indeed, the act of the town council dedicating Alabat to God has gradually impacted the people in the island.
When asked about his leadership style, Mayor Andy prefers the participation of his constituents in all projects, particularly the youth. He also encourages the formation of associations and/or cooperatives in each livelihood project to empower members. He also solicited the assistance of the Army Engineering Brigade to construct school buildings, using the specifications of the Department of Education, as funded by nongovernment organizations and a few friends. He knows that the best way to help his fellow Alabatins is to HELP them in ways where they can live responsibly with love for others and love for God.
Knowing that there have been some detractors and opposition to his administration, he is never fearful. In his own words, he says, “Bakit ako matatakot, Diyos ang kakampi ko [Why will I be afraid, God is on my side!]” In the Bible, Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Mayor Andy serves as the epitome of public servants who are Maka-Diyos (For God), Maka-Tao (For People), Maka-Kalikasan (For Nature) and Maka-Bansa (For Country). God first, above all else.
Alabat is one example of a progressive community under God, true to the Preamble of the Constitution, that implores the aid of Almighty God to HELP make things better, and the people happier!
For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.