ACTOR-turned-lawmaker Arjo Atayde isn’t just earning raves on screen — he’s making waves in politics too. As a first-time congressman for Quezon City’s 1st District, Atayde has managed to show his deep commitment to serving his constituents.
Last Monday, during his State of the District Address (SODA) at SM SkyDome, the actor-politician couldn’t hide his feelings as he proudly reported on the promises he’s already delivered and the programs he’s spearheaded in his first two years in office.
Representing over 400,000 residents, Atayde acknowledged the tireless teamwork that has made his Aksyon Agad program a success. He especially singled out Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte for her vital role in supporting his district’s projects. “For the record, none of these efforts would be possible without collaboration and cooperation. And nais ko rin kilalanin ang ating butihing mayor, Mayor Joy Belmonte at ang pamahalaan ng lungsod ng Quezon City sa kanilang suporta at patuloy na suportang ibibigay sa distrito Uno,” Atayde said.
His commitment to his district was clear: “Every decision, every peso spent, and every project initiated is aimed at serving the best interests of the First District of Quezon City,” he said.
Among the standout initiatives he celebrated were the tangible impacts of Aksyon Agad. Since taking office, Atayde has helped 11,498 workers through the TUPAD emergency employment program and connected 1,500 applicants to overseas job opportunities through the Taiwan Job Fair. Additionally, 60 dialysis patients receive free treatment every day at the district’s new facility, while 75,466 individuals have received medical assistance. Over 4,500 students have benefited from CHED Educational Assistance, and 1,410 scholars were supported under Tulong Dunong and SMART. His office also provided 132,567 families with rice distribution and extended free meals to 65,300 residents through Kusina on Wheels. To help small businesses thrive, 245 entrepreneurs were given P15,000 in capital, and more than 7,700 families received aid after fires, with 3,500 families provided with burial assistance. Finally, over 40,000 individuals have been given financial assistance for various needs, ensuring that no one in his district is left behind.
“These aren’t just numbers; they’re lives changed, families supported and opportunities created,” Atayde said.
Education has been a top priority for Atayde, who proudly shared that 4,598 students have benefited from CHED Educational Assistance under his leadership. He pointed out that more than P2.8 million in cash allowances were distributed to 929 senior high school students via the Tulong Eskwela Program. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of fostering the district’s future leaders, revealing plans for continued growth in youth and sports development. He spoke of his vision to expand the Aksyon Agad Sports Program, which has already supported 987 young athletes and plans to include even more sports next year — badminton, chess, darts and bowling — creating new avenues for community unity and individual development.
As his speech drew to a close, Atayde thanked his wife Maine and family for their unwavering support. His love for his constituents was evident as he expressed how much their trust meant to him. “Wala po ako rito kung hindi dahil sa inyong tiwala — isang tiwalang hindi ko kailanman ipagwawalang-bahala,” Atayde said, emotional. “Maraming salamat, Distrito Uno! First term has been a journey… Thank you for believing in me; I won’t let you down. Let’s go for round 2.”
