By Benjamin Cuaresma
REAL, Quezon — Former Real Mayor and now Vice Mayor Diana Abigale Diestro-Aquino expressed confidence that the municipality’s development agenda will continue uninterrupted under the current administration, citing the continuity of the town’s Comprehensive Development Plan and long-term development programs.
During a lunch ambush interview conducted by members of the Manila City Hall Press Club at her residence in Real, Quezon on Sunday, Aquino said the municipality’s development blueprint remains largely intact despite minor adjustments introduced by the present administration.
According to Aquino, the changes made to the Comprehensive Development Plan were minimal and did not alter the overall direction established during her tenure as mayor.
“The Comprehensive Development Plan of Real has not really changed. There were only minor tweaks, but essentially it remains a continuation of what we have already established,” she said.
She noted that ongoing infrastructure projects, social services, environmental programs, and community development initiatives are expected to move forward based on the foundations laid during previous years.
Aquino emphasized that her confidence stems from the continuity of governance and institutional planning rather than personal affiliations.
She clarified that while leadership may change, the municipality’s development framework remains the guiding document for future projects and investments.
“I have trust in the process because the plans and programs are already in place. What we are seeing now is a continuation of those efforts,” she said.
Reflecting on her public service career, Aquino recalled that her political journey began as Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federation President of Quezon, a position that enabled her to serve as an ex-officio member of the Provincial Board.
She later entered local politics and was elected mayor of Real at the age of 30, serving from 2016 to 2022 before returning to public office as vice mayor.
Aquino said sustainable development requires continuity beyond electoral cycles, stressing that long-term planning allows local governments to maintain momentum in delivering services and implementing key infrastructure projects.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that programs benefiting the people continue regardless of who occupies the position. Development should be a continuing process,” she said.
The vice mayor expressed optimism that Real will continue to build on gains achieved in recent years as the municipality pursues economic growth, tourism development, environmental sustainability, and improved public services for residents.
Members of the Manila City Hall Press Club were in Real, Quezon for a weekend visit when they had the opportunity to speak with Aquino and discuss the municipality’s ongoing development initiatives and future plans.
