Newly sworn-in Parañaque City Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots governance and collective prosperity, declaring that the city's strength lies in its people.  

Speaking before more than 500 guests at the June 27 oath-taking ceremony of newly elected officials at the People’s Hall, Mayor Olivarez acknowledged future challenges while rallying citizens with a powerful message of unity and resilience.

"Ang daan tungo sa kaunlaran ay hindi madali. May mga hadlang at pagsubok. Ngunit tandaan: Ang Parañaque ay hindi lang lugar—ito ay pamilya. At sa isang pamilya, walang maiiwan (The path to progress isn’t easy. There will be obstacles and trials. But remember: Parañaque is not just a place—it’s family. And in a family, no one gets left behind),” he said,

Breaking from traditional politics, the mayor emphasized his hands-on leadership style, vowing to bring government closer to citizens.

“Hindi nais na ang mamamayan ang lalapit sa pamahalaan—ang pamahalaan ang dapat lumapit sa tao (The government shouldn’t wait for people to come—it must reach out first),” he said, stressing that true progress is built on constant engagement.  

Along with his heartfelt gratitude to God, family, and all who supported his renewed service mandate, he emphasized that every Parañaqueño’s trust is not just a vote, but proof of a shared vision for a more progressive city.

“I could not have reached this milestone alone. Your resilience and determination have given me the strength to serve once again,” he added in Filipino.

He urged Parañaqueños’ active participation: “Makiisa, magsalita, at magbantay. Ang Parañaque ay atin (Unite, speak up, and stay vigilant. Parañaque belongs to all of us).”

The mayor, affectionately called "Kuya Edwin," outlined his administration’s key priorities: Healthcare through strengthened public hospitals and health centers; Education through enhanced youth programs; Inclusivity by expanding benefits for seniors and Persons with Disabilities; Livelihood — job creation and skills training; and transparency.

"Ibigay ang tama sa tao. Tamang proseso at tamang paggastos ng pera (Give people what’s right. Right processes, right spending), “Olivarez said.  
 
Highlighting Parañaque’s improved finances during his previous terms, he credited the collective efforts of the city government.

He said: “Sa pagtutulungan ng bawat isa, nai-ayos ang pananalapi ng lungsod (Through teamwork, we’ve fixed the city’s finances).”  

Through faith and united efforts, he pledged to make Parañaque a city built on dreams

“Our vision is for Parañaque, for the next 3-5 years—we will be the premier city all over the Republic of the Philippines,” he added.

The mayor ended his speech on an uplifting note, sharing his signature motto: "Para sa Diyos, Para sa Tao, Serbisyong Totoo (For God, For People, True Service).”  

Also sworn in were Paranaque First District Rep. Eric L. Olivarez, 2nd District Rep. Bryan Yamsuan, Vice Mayor Benjo Bernabe, and 16 members of the City Council.

Photo Caption: 
Mayor Edwin L. Olivarez calls for unity during the June 27 oath-taking ceremony, pledging to make Parañaque a premier Philippine city within 3-5 years. (PIO Photo)