Arkipelago News is thrilled to welcome Atty. Magtanggol “Magi” Gunigundo, a distinguished lawyer and former Congressman of the City of Valenzuela, as our newest opinion columnist. With an impressive 15-year tenure as a lawmaker and extensive expertise in various fields, Atty. Gunigundo brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to Arkipelago News. His column, titled “Making the Grade,” will provide thought-provoking and enlightening viewpoints on various topics starting tomorrow, May 29, 2023.

As the principal author of significant laws including the Clerical Error/Gunigundo Law, K-12 Law, Customs Modernization Law, and the Philippine Standard Time Law, former Congressman Magi has made a significant impact on the lives of the public. The Gunigundo Law empowers local civil registrars to correct errors in birth certificates, making the process faster and simpler. By eliminating the need for a judicial order, Atty. Gunigundo’s law spares individuals the financial burden of legal services and lengthy court proceedings that can last between 6 to 24 months.

In addition, he has been a key advocate for Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education (MTBMLE), a critical component of the “Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013,” commonly known as the “K to 12 Act.” Atty. Gunigundo also authored Republic Act No. 10535, also known as the “Philippine Standard Time Act,” ensuring the synchronization of clocks with PAG-ASA, the official timekeeper of the Philippines.

Beyond his legislative accomplishments, Atty. Gunigundo is an esteemed author, having written two books on clerical law and customs modernization. His dedication to human development and population issues earned him the Human Development Legislator Award 2015 presented by the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD). Moreover, he imparts his legal expertise as a civil law instructor.

Atty. Gunigundo completed his AB Political Science degree at the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1985 and obtained his Bachelor of Laws from Ateneo de Manila University in 1989, ranking 13th in the 1989 Bar Examination.

Arkipelago News is honored to have Atty. Magi Gunigundo as part of our respected team of opinion columnists. We eagerly anticipate the enriching and enlightening perspectives he will provide, creating a meaningful reading experience for our readers.