The Time is Now: A Call to Action for Antique's Second Congressional District

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, ANTIQUE – For too long, the vibrant and growing province of Antique, with its rich history and dynamic communities, has been represented by a single voice in the halls of the Philippine Congress. Despite a population that now significantly surpasses the constitutional threshold for multiple districts, the call for a second congressional district has yet to translate into concrete legislative action. The time has come for our esteemed Congress members and Senators, particularly those with deep roots in Antique, to champion this vital cause.

With a projected population well over 640,000, Antique has clearly outgrown the confines of a single legislative district. The 1987 Philippine Constitution mandates a minimum of 250,000 inhabitants per district, meaning Antique could comfortably accommodate two, or even more, representatives. This isn't merely about numbers; it's about equitable representation, focused development, and amplified advocacy for every Antingueño.

Why a Second District is Imperative:

1. Enhanced Representation: A single representative, no matter how dedicated, faces an immense challenge in adequately addressing the diverse needs of 18 municipalities, stretching from the northern tip of Libertad to the southern reaches of Anini-y. Two districts would allow for more localized attention, understanding, and responsive governance.

2. Accelerated Development: With two representatives, Antique would double its capacity to lobby for national funds, projects, and legislative support. This could translate into faster infrastructure development, more robust social services, and greater economic opportunities across the province.

3. Improved Constituent Services: Managing the concerns of over 600,000 people is a Herculean task. A divided district would streamline the delivery of services, making congressional offices more accessible and responsive to the needs of individual constituents.

4. Amplified Voice in Congress: Two representatives mean two votes and two strong voices advocating for Antique's interests in national policy debates, budget allocations, and legislative initiatives that impact our daily lives.

A Direct Appeal to Our Leaders:

We specifically call upon Representative Antonio Agapito "AA" Legarda Jr., our current Lone District Representative, to take the lead in filing the necessary bill in the House of Representatives. As the direct voice of Antique in Congress, he possesses the immediate platform and mandate to initiate this crucial legislative process.

We also urge Senator Loren Legarda, a proud daughter of Antique, to lend her significant influence, experience, and legislative prowess in the Senate to ensure the swift passage of this bill once it reaches the upper chamber. Her commitment to her home province is well-known, and her advocacy would be invaluable.

Furthermore, we appeal to Representative Felimon Espares of the Coop-NATCCO Party-list, a respected Antingueño from Barbaza, to join forces and co-author or actively support the bill. His presence as a resident of Antique within Congress provides another critical voice and perspective.

The people of Antique have demonstrated their resilience, their industry, and their unwavering spirit. It is now time for our national leaders to empower this spirit with the representation it deserves. The legislative mechanism is clear, and the population requirement has long been met.

Let us seize this moment. Let our Congress members and Senators stand united for the future of Antique. File the bill, champion its passage, and usher in a new era of stronger, more focused representation for all Antingueños. The time for a second congressional district is not just coming; it is now.