[APWSLMembers 509] End the culture of political dynasty "Strengthen the representation of ordinary people in Congress"

[KMU International Department]

End the culture of political dynasty
"Strengthen the representation of ordinary people in Congress"

In the filing of nominees of Anakpawis Partylist at the Commission on
Elections today, labor leader Joel Maglunsod said his participation in
the partylist election as the third nominee of Anakpawis aims to
strengthen the representation of basic social sectors in the House of
Representatives.

"The culture of political dynasty must end. We need more public
officials coming from the ranks of ordinary people," the labor leader
said who likes it better when people call him "Ka Jomag."

"Primarily, we need more voices that will echo the interests of
workers, urban and rural poor in the Congress. Anakpawis will continue
the promotion of pro-people policies that will serve the majority of
the Filipino population. The attacks against our ranks will not weaken
our resolve to serve our constituents. Not even the government's
demolition campaign against progressive party lists can discourage
us."

"It's imperative to counter economic and political attacks initiated
by the government against the people. We see legislative work as one
way to realize this. It will complement the primary and most effective
way to assert our rights and welfare which is through the collective
action of the people. Even though there are many threats and hurdles
to Anakpawis' participation and victory, we will show the government
that we are enjoying massive support from Filipinos, especially the
marginalized sectors of workers, peasants, government employees and
urban poor."

Maglunsod is supported by members of the Kilusang Mayo labor center
and fellow labor leader, Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran who was
allowed by the Court to join the filing of candidacy. "I look up to Ka
Bel as a role model. His exemplary contribution to the Philippine
labor movement and the people's representation in the legislative is
unquestionable. He was targeted by the Arroyo government because of
his uncompromising and staunch pro-people principles."

Maglunsod, now 54 years old, also serves as the Secretary General of
KMU. He comes from Bukidnon, Mindanao. He is married to Arlene
Maglunsod and they have one daughter and granddaughter. ###

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