Balilihan Mayor Atty. Trisha Chatto was among four speakers at a national forum on ethics and integrity in public service held during the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) convention in Manila this week.
The forum formed part of the NMYL’s National Convention and Election, which ran from Feb. 23 to 25 at the Manila Hotel. It was attended by young politicians from across the Philippines.
Chatto shared the panel with former Senator Joey Lina, Oriental Mindoro Governor Bonz Dolor, and Infanta, Quezon Mayor L.A. Ruanto.
The NMYL, which describes itself as dedicated to good governance and ethical leadership, uses its national conventions to promote a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability among local lawmakers aged 40 and below.
The organization advocates what it calls “New Politics,” a framework centered on Principles, Platform, and Performance. It urges members to strengthen transparency mechanisms in government projects, ensure strict compliance with ethical procurement practices, and pursue accountability for corruption.
The convention featured plenary sessions and panel discussions aimed at equipping young legislators with tools for better governance.
Chatto, a first-time mayor, succeeded her mother, Councilor Pureza Chatto, who had served three consecutive terms — or nine years — as Balilihan town mayor before being barred by term limits from seeking reelection.