Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo said her current post in local government has proven to be more demanding and relentless compared to her six-year tenure as vice president, citing the constant and wide-ranging nature of concerns raised at the community level.
In an interview, Robredo explained that the role of vice president is largely defined by its constitutional mandate of being ready for succession, or stepping in if the president is unable to serve. While she expanded her role during her term through programs such as Angat Buhay, she said the workflow at the national level remained more structured and predictable. She noted that the scope of work then allowed for clearer planning and execution.
Now as mayor, Robredo said the nature of governance has shifted significantly. She described the role as more aligned with the kind of public service she prefers, but also more demanding, as it requires direct and immediate responses to the daily needs of constituents. She said local governance comes with little to no pause, as concerns continue regardless of circumstances, including personal health.
Robredo said the workload involves addressing a broad range of issues, from major community concerns to routine matters such as disputes between neighbors, malfunctioning street lights, and sanitation problems like animal waste on public roads. She emphasized that these concerns come in constantly and require attention without delay.
She added that the role does not allow for selective focus, as each day presents a different set of problems that must be handled. The unpredictability, she said, is part of the responsibility of being a local chief executive, where immediate action is often expected.
Robredo said the experience has given her a more grounded perspective on governance, highlighting how local officials serve as the first point of contact for the public. She said this proximity to everyday issues underscores the critical role of local government in responding to the immediate and practical needs of communities.
