Senator Risa Hontiveros recently dropped some truth bombs about the realities of public service before a group of Filipino youth.
Speaking to National Youth Congress delegates during a visit to the Senate, Hontiveros admitted that public service is no walk in the park, but the journey is worth taking.
“My dear students, serving the nation, and serving others is difficult – but it is worth the blood, sweat and tears. We have a beautiful country and amazing people – and these are worthy of our energies, our creativity, and our idealism,” she said.
The senator hoped that the Senate visit would be a game-changer for the youth in pursuing public service and advocacy. “I hope that today’s event will leave you with a new appreciation for public service and advocacy, if not a new purpose as a citizen and youth leader,” she said.
As chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, Hontiveros is delighted at the enthusiasm of the young Filipinos to dive deep into
government and societal issues.
Opening up about her own youth, she revealed a pivotal moment during her high school days at St. Scholastica’s College Manila. When she attended a forum on advocating a nuclear-free country, she recalled how it opened her eyes “to pollution, the dangers of nuclear power, corruption, greed and the need to stand up to these ills and challenges.”
Hontiveros said she is excited to listen to the voices of the youth on forging a brighter future for the country.
“Hindi kayo nag-iisa. Kasama ninyo kami sa bawat hakbang. Hindi tayo susuko, hindi tayo maduduwag at hindi tayo mananahimik. ✊🏼” she said.
Sa wakas! Hontiveros welcomes De Lima release
Risa Hontiveros’ special visitor at the Senate
