By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
BUTUAN City— The political landscape of Agusan del Norte and Butuan City is bracing for a shake-up. A new regional political party, Isog Ako!, is set to challenge the longstanding dominance of traditional politicians when the 2028 elections roll around.
The party is currently undergoing registration and accreditation with the Commission on Elections.
Founded by Mark Kristopher Tolentino, a successful lawyer, former councilor of Cabadbaran City, law professor, and erstwhile associate solicitor at the Office of the Solicitor General, the party carries the rallying cry: “A Strong Caraga, A United People.”
Members of the fledgling political bloc are already urging Tolentino to vie for a congressional seat—either through a legislative district or party-list—on a platform that is decidedly pro-people, pro-environment, and pro-poor.
In its manifesto, Isog Ako! champions authentic leadership, empowered communities, and sustainable development for Caraga. The party aims to unlock the region’s vast, yet underdeveloped, potential despite its rich natural resources.
Tolentino outlined the party’s core goals: transparent and accountable governance, empowerment of indigenous peoples, support for farmers and fisherfolk, and infrastructure development to drive the economy.
“The group’s platform of government,” Tolentino said, “will focus on sustainable mining and environmental protection, the adoption of modern technology, infrastructure building, protection of indigenous peoples’ rights, peace and order, and a broader economic agenda that promotes investment, employment, and social progress.”
Tolentino, once the youngest municipal councilor in his town before it became a city, is known for advocating youth empowerment and responsible mining practices, particularly measures against environmental degradation in the extractive industries.
“Public service,” he added, “should go beyond making laws. The true measure of a leader is in the positive gains the people experience during their term. Lip service, partisan loyalty, and personal agendas only distance politicians from the real needs of the electorate.”
With its ambitious platform, Isog Ako! could be the litmus test for Caraga voters, signaling whether the region is ready for a new generation of political leadership.
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