LAGUNA — Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Friday described Laguna as a “province of potential,” emphasizing the urgent need to unlock the full value of its natural and human resources, particularly the largely underutilized Laguna Lake.
Cayetano made the statement during an interview with reporters following the Laguna Pastors and Workers Summit 2026, held on January 30 at the Laguna Sports Complex.
“Laguna is a province of potential. Name anything—your people, whether doctors, nurses, farmers, hotel workers. Whether tourism or agriculture, mayaman ang probinsya,” the senator said.
Cayetano, who has been advocating for the development of Laguna Lake since 1998, urged the provincial government to work with various stakeholders to establish a unified and long-term development plan for the lake.
“Isang agenda ko kay Governor Sol ay pagkaisahan natin na may mangyari sa Laguna Lake. Kung nakita natin ang dating US bases na ginawang central business districts, nakinabang ang Baguio City, La Union, Clark, at Taguig. Pero ang potential ng Laguna Lake, grabe talaga,” he said, noting that proper resources and effective administration are crucial.
The senator also reiterated the need for deeper studies and planning, including the possibility of strengthening the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) through legislation.
“Baka dapat bagong batas sa LLDA, na mas palakasin ang papel nito—parang BCDA, and even more,” Cayetano added.
Cayetano expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Marisol “Sol” Aragones, citing her background as a former journalist and legislator as an advantage in steering the province’s development agenda.
He encouraged local government leaders to stay focused on public service despite ongoing national political issues.
“Habang ang ingay ay nasa national, ang tunay na gumagalaw ay governors, mayors, at barangay captains. Hindi maghihintay ang kalusugan, edukasyon, kalinisan, at agrikultura,” he said.
Speaking before faith leaders, Cayetano also called on residents and leaders to discern Laguna’s purpose, saying development becomes clearer when guided by values and direction.
“I-align sa purpose ni Lord. Bakit ganyan kalaki ang Laguna? Bakit ganyang kaganda? Bakit may Laguna Lake? Kapag na-discover ang purpose, mas madali ang planning,” he said, likening development to following the natural flow of a river.
Governor Aragones thanked Cayetano for attending the summit and acknowledged his support and mentorship.
“Maraming salamat po kay Senator Kuya Alan Peter Cayetano. Isa siyang kaibigan at mentor. Sa mahihirap na yugto ng buhay ko, andoon siya. Biyaya siya ng Panginoon sa akin at sa lalawigan ng Laguna,” Aragones said.
