Butuan city: House Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III on Friday called on Filipinos from all sectors to actively participate in the legislative process, stressing that the country's best laws are crafted not only by lawmakers but together with the people they serve. This, as the House of Representatives brings LegisHear to Mindanao.

According to Philippines News Agency, the nationwide consultation program embodies the House's commitment to building a more open, participatory, and people-centered Congress under the banner of the 'Bagong Kongreso (New Congress).' In a video message played at the beginning of the Butuan City leg of LegisHear, Dy emphasized the importance of the people's voice in crafting significant laws.

Following its successful launch in Isabela on July 31, Caraga State University in Butuan City hosted the second iteration of LegisHear on Friday. The Butuan leg was led by Velicaria-Garafil and Butuan City lone district Rep. Jose Aquino II. "LegisHear is bringing Congress directly to communities, where citizens can share their experiences and help shape legislation before measures are enacted," Aquino said in a statement. He noted the existing gap between policies crafted in Manila and the realities experienced by the people in the communities.

The event saw participation from more than 2,000 residents from different barangays in the city. They were provided with inputs on various topics, including the legislative process and updates on House Bill No. 8470, which seeks to convert the Butuan Medical Center into Butuan General Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Caraga Region facilitated the release of financial assistance to 2,500 beneficiaries under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program, aligning with the LegisHear event. Each beneficiary received PHP3,000 to help address immediate needs and alleviate financial burdens caused by crises.