Hon. John G. Bongat
John Garcia Bongat, the eighth local chief executive of the City of Naga, entered public service as a city councilor in 2001. A topnotcher member of the Sangguniang Panglunsod for three consecutive terms, he has authored hundreds of ordinances and resolutions, making him one of the most prolific councilors Naga has ever had.
A true blue-blooded Atenean, Mayor Bongat finished his elementary schooling at Naga Parochial School. He then went on to study at Ateneo de Naga High School. His exposure and dedication to public service at an early age drove him to study Political Science at Ateneo de Manila University. While in college, Mayor Bongat also mentored and helped educate underprivileged children in Quezon City.
After finishing his bachelor’s degree at Ateneo de Manila University, Mayor Bongat went on to study law at the University of the Philippines.
Prior to his becoming an elective official, Mayor Bongat practiced his law profession with two reputable firms in Makati, before being appointed Corporate Secretary and Assistant Vice President of Megaworld Corporation. With the belief that those who have less in life should have more in law, Mayor Bongat devoted much of his time and effort as the National Director for Legal Aid of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, providing free legal assistance to fellow Filipinos in need.
In 1998, he returned to Naga to continue his private practice. Mayor Bongat earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, making him one of the most sought after lawyers in the city and in Camarines Sur.
During his nine years as a city councilor, Mayor Bongat authored a number of landmark ordinances that focused on peace and order, as well as trade and industry. He is the author behind the Bantay Kataid (volunteer neighborhood watch), i-Serve Program, and Naga City Business Registry Databank ordinances. He also chaired the city government’s Project Monitoring Committee, as well as the city council’s Peace and Order, and Appropriations committees.
In May 2010, Mayor Bongat won overwhelmingly on a platform of leadership by example, further cementing his motto that, “Leadership is action, not position.”
Dear Mayor Bongat:
My name is Roberto R. Ruelo. I was City Councilor of Naga City from January 1, 1968 to August 25, 1971. After my stint as City Councilor, I worked as a Legislative Aid for then Senator Maceda and, after the declaration of martial law and the abolition of congress, as an Associate Attorney in his law firm. In 1975, President Marcos appointed me as an Assistant City Fiscal of Manila. I served as such until my immigration to the United States in 1978.
In the U.S., I took and passed the bars of the States of Illinois and Florida. In Illinois, I served as an Administrative Hearing Officer for the Deparment of Public Aid and the Department of Children and Family Services. In Florida, I served as an Assisant City Attorney of Tampa, until my retirement in 2003. In retirement, my legal practice is concentrated on immigration law. I am visiting Bicol for the first time since I left for the U.S. In 1978.
If I could and subject to your approval, I wish to make a brief courtesy call on your office on Wednesday, February 2, 2011, between 4:00 p.m. And 5:00 p.m., on my way back from Caramoan to Manila by car. I just want to see the Mayor’s Office where I worked as a Clerk from 1956 to 1964 and the City Council’s office. After the 15 minute courtesy call (15 minutes max), I would proceed to manila. Your prompt and favorable response would be much appreciated.
Thank you.
Bob Ruelo
Sure Councilor, my pleasure to meet you on Feb. 2. Please call or text me thru 09189267053.
Mr. Ruelo,
Hi,
Thank you for visiting our site. This is Mr. Reondanga of the City Mayor’s Office. I have already submitted your request to the Mayor for his response. Kindly send to me (allen.reondanga@naga.gov.ph) your email address or contact no. so we can reach you the soonest of the mayor’s response.