Round up Calabarzon

SSS speeds up member services as ARTA marks 8th anniversary

Zen Trinidad I May 22, 2026

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - The Social Security System (SSS) reaffirmed its commitment to faster, more responsive public service as it joins the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) in celebrating its 8th anniversary on May 22.

“Every transaction matter to our members,” said SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph M. de Claro. “Aligned with ARTA’s drive to simplify government processes, we are strengthening frontline services, streamlining procedures, and modernizing systems so Filipinos can access benefits with less delay and fewer steps.”

SSS highlighted financial gains that enable service investments: net income of PHP142.97 billion in 2025 and a Reserve Fund that topped PHP1 trillion for the first time. These milestones, the agency said, allow direct funding for new technologies, infrastructure upgrades, and expanded member programs.

To address rising household energy costs, SSS will roll out an Energy Sustainability Loan Program in September. Qualified members enrolled in the Mandatory Provident Fund can apply for financing to install residential solar-panel systems, payable over up to seven years. SSS aims to support at least 100,000 homes by 2028, helping families reduce electricity bills while promoting long-term energy resilience.

“Our stronger financial position lets us deliver practical programs that respond to evolving needs,” de Claro added.

SSS said it will continue coordinating with ARTA and other agencies to cut red tape and improve the overall member experience through reduced waiting times, faster digital transactions, and more responsive frontline assistance. (RC)

Laguna families flock to ‘Akay sa May Autism’ registration drive

Zen Trinidad I May 12, 2026

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna - Hundreds of families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) flocked to the Laguna Sports Complex on Monday (May 11) for the ongoing registration of the provincial government’s “Akay sa May Autism” program.

This initiative of Governor Sol Aragones seeks to bolster government support, expand assistance services, and foster inclusive programs for individuals with autism and their families across Laguna.

Parents and guardians registered on behalf of their children, who stand to benefit from the program’s services.

“This is the first time we’ve experienced this kind of attention from the governor. Thank you so much, Gov. Sol,” one parent said in Filipino.

Provincial staff managed a steady stream of participants throughout the day, ensuring smooth and efficient processing.

The program highlights the administration’s push for inclusivity and aid to vulnerable groups in the province.

It can be recalled that Governor Sol Aragones donated part of her salary to children with ASD and gathered positive support from Secretary Rex Gatchalian of the Department of Social Work and Development (DSWD) upon her personal request recently. (RC)

Navigating familiarity vs. fresh perspectives in Laguna governance

By: Zen Trinidad I April 27, 2026

IN LAGUNA politics, former Board Member Nino Lajara critiques the new administration for lacking institutional familiarity, alleging coercion and political pressures overshadow competence. Having served three terms, Lajara positions his experience as guardian of proven traditions amid the 2025 election shakeup.

Governor Sol Aragones counters sharply, decrying the "culture of silence" that stifled dissent under past administrations. Her "Gobyernong may Solusyon" (Government with Solutions) policy embodies this fresh perspective philosophy, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and her flagship election promise: transformative healthcare programs-from expanded rural clinics and subsidized medicine to free MRI services at Laguna Medical Center by August.

The new council, without any party mate of Gov. Sol including Vice Governor JM Carait, aligns with this solution-driven approach over rote tradition, demanding bold oversight beyond familiar protocols.

This clash embodies tension: institutional familiarity ensures efficiency but risks complacency, while fresh perspectives like Sol's healthcare reforms inject innovation amid friction.

Ultimately, Gov. Sol's loyalty remains to the people, transcending political colors.

Photo: Fresh Perspective in Action: "Bawal ang Mataray sa mga Ospital ng Laguna"

Governor Sol Aragones signs her first executive order "Bawal ang Mataray sa mga Ospital ng Laguna" (No Rudeness in Hospitals), mandating smiles for patients despite chaos. With DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa, Vice Gov. JM Carait, and Board Member Angelica Alarva, this embodies her fresh perspective-"Gobyernong may Solusyon"-prioritizing compassionate service over bureaucratic frowns in Laguna's district and provincial hospitals.