Coun. Elizabeth Sio on Bible Week observance: ‘Public service must be rooted in moral responsibility’

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Lucena City Councilor Elizabeth Sio delivers a privilege speech during a regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungso...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Lucena City Councilor Elizabeth Sio delivers a privilege speech during a regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, highlighting the observance of Bible Week 2026 and calling for values-based public service. (Sangguniang Panlungsod - Lucena City)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Bible Week 2026 took center stage in the Lucena City Council during a privilege speech by Elizabeth Sio, a public official known for sharing Bible reflections and prayer-based encouragement. During the session, she emphasized that public service is inseparable from moral responsibility and faith-based values.

Sio, a member of the 20th Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Lucena, has consistently raised issues related to good governance, ethical leadership, and community welfare. She has frequently delivered privilege speeches anchored on moral accountability and values-based public service.



Bible Week is an annual observance in the Philippines that highlights the role of the Bible in shaping personal character and public life. National proclamations designate its observance every last week of January, underscoring its cultural and moral significance.

In her privilege speech, Sio reminded the council that the observance is mandated nationwide and observed across government institutions and local communities. She noted that the celebration follows Presidential Proclamation No. 44, Series of 1946, which institutionalized the annual observance of Bible Week every last week of January.

“Ang Bible Week ay hindi lamang paggunita ng isang aklat, kundi paalala ng mga halagang humuhubog sa mabuting mamamayan at tapat na lingkod-bayan—katotohanan, katarungan, malasakit, at pagpapakumbaba.”

She stressed that these values are especially important for those entrusted with public office, noting that leadership carries moral obligations beyond legal mandates. According to Sio, public service requires strong moral grounding alongside policy expertise and institutional authority.

“Nawa’y magsilbing gabay sa atin ang mga aral ng Bibliya upang mamuno nang may integridad, magpasya nang may karunungan, at maglingkod nang may malasakit—lalo na sa higit na nangangailangan.”

She also pointed out that the people of Lucena City do not expect perfect leaders, but those who are honest about their limitations and willing to listen. According to Sio, residents look for officials who show sincerity, openness to dialogue, and a genuine commitment to serve the public interest.

Sio underscored that every ordinance and policy decision directly affects the daily lives of Lucenahins, shaping access to services and opportunities. She emphasized that leadership grounded in values helps strengthen public trust, accountability, and overall governance.

The Lucena City Council expressed its support for the privilege speech and for this year’s Bible Week observance. Council members likewise signified their collective backing of activities marking the annual celebration.