By Farah G. Decano

 

ATTY. Lorna Kapunan, awardee of Ten Outstanding Women of the Nation, is defending Atong Ang, a suspected mastermind in the disappearance of several sabungeros, allegedly buried at Taal Lake. This raises questions about why an abogada de campanilla would take on a case that could overshadow her radiant image.

While financial gain isn’t typically the sole motivation for lawyers, professional ethics encourage them to accept cases even with unfavorable public perception. Ethics limit grounds for refusal to conflict of interest, inability to effectively represent, or client insistence on illegal/immoral acts.

I empathize with Atty. Kapunan, since I have successfully defended men accused of RA 9262 violations. Advocating for women’s rights does not diminish a lawyer’s capacity to uphold justice, as everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Ethical rules guide a lawyer’s fidelities above personal advocacies.

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Konsehal Dada Reyna, the sole victor from the previous majority in the recent 2025 local elections, finds herself marginalized and stripped of key Sanggunian positions. This challenging situation, however, offers a unique opportunity to distinguish herself as an exemplary politician by championing transparency and accountability.

The new supermajority’s intention to deny the seconds to her motions clearly shows their plan to derail her actions. With unwavering resolve, Konsehal Dada can use her strategic position to command respect and even apprehension amongst them.  She must become an expert in parliamentary rules. There are many ways to achieve goals without constant “seconds” to her “motions.”

Konsehal Dada must not rely on public sympathy. She can still ignite transformative change, illuminating the city and dispelling the shadows of corruption. The lone opposition Councilor should draw inspiration from Senator Risa Hontiveros, who has successfully forged an image as a popular voice of reason in the Senate.

Some suggest Senator Hontiveros’s influence extends to Malacañang due to her sibling’s connection to President Bongbong Marcos. Konsehal Dada may possess a similar strategic advantage, as Atty. Ope Reyna, Mayor Belen’s principal political adviser, is her uncle.

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I recently heard two narratives underscoring Mayor Belen’s power and influence in the recent elections through instructions to barangay leaders.

According to grapevines, Konsehal Dada’s inclusion among the triumphant Councilors was with Mayor Belen’s blessings. Two alleged occurrences converged in her favor: a candidate aligned with Mayor Belen purportedly engaged in dual loyalties, and a highly influential ally advocated for Konsehal Dada’s inclusion. Her “insertion” was reportedly facilitated by her measured demeanor, being neither foul-mouthed nor overtly misbehaved.

Some analysts attribute Councilor Joey Tamayo’s meteoric rise from 9th or 10th in pre-election surveys to 2nd in actual ranking to Mayor Belen’s insistence. Anticipating that her political arch-enemy, Mayor Brian Lim, might secure the Vice Mayor slot, she strategically secured outspoken allied Councilors in top ranks. This ensured her comfort and control of the Council’s direction, especially during her absences abroad.

Councilor Mike Fernandez, however, deserves distinct credit for consistently securing top ranks in previous elections, with only one exception in 2022.

With her seeming power to decide who should be part of the City Council and the influence to select the top councilors, Mayor Belen is fast becoming Dagupan City’s Ultra Woman.

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