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As an Akbayan cabinet officer for 2009-2010, I am glad to say that I was really part of an Outstanding New Era (O.N.E. Cab). Through the tough and good times, we made it through, and I really love you all from the bottom of my hearts. Together, we were able to form a bond that cannot be explained. I would have never thought that awesome and close relationships would spring up from this year.

Now that it is “over,” I am also glad to say that I cannot wait to just sit back and relax next year as I go onto other things in life. What I learned this year being on cab is how different it is to be the ones behind the scenes and just being a general members. I have come to appreciate the hardwork that cabinet officers in any organization puts on for its members and the community. It’s not an easy task. Sometimes it feels like the work you do is underappreciated, but in the end it is all worth because most of the time they turn into huge accomplishments.

There were many times I wanted to give up and just stop doing what I was there to do. In the beginning of the year, I was 100% motivated. I put a lot of energy into this organization as did the others with sleepless nights. As a Public Relations Officer, I really did care about the members and wanted to make sure that they knew everything that was going on with Akbayan. I wanted to be a good face for the organization and know that they could go to me for whatever, but towards the last month or so I lost track of that goal. I started making excuses for not being around as much: more work, study more, “I’m just too tired.” I also felt unmotivated because I really did feel underappreciated for all the hard work the cab and I put for the members, so I kept thinking: “is this all really worth it?”

Looking back at this whole year, it was all worth it. I’ve grown into a better leader and have grown up a lot, but of course, I have so so so many things to work on as a person. In this photo are things ONE cab came up during our summer retreat, before everything started. I’ve definitely used some of these to keep me motivated, and there were a lot of things listed on the list in areas I wanted to work on.

This year as a cabinet officer is really undescribale. I’ve actually grown this love/hate relationship with Akbayan because of it, but in all honesty, the love outweighs the hate.

Thank you to EVERYONE who supported Akbayan this year. Whether or not you were here for one day or every day, you all have made a contribution and a difference. Without you, all the succes that came with Akbayan would have not happened.

For next year, I hope that you all use your full potential. This will be such a great experience, and I can’t really tell you how it’s going to be because you will have to go through it yourselves. Just seriously enjoy and always remember why you took the position. Be open minded about everything and support each other, especially through the tough times. If something goes wrong, it isn’t over. Just fix it for next time. Also, cherish the times you all are together when you’re not working on business. Those are the best times. Those are the times that makes you stay in this organization. Remember that Akbayan isn’t your whole life. It is something to do because it’s not for school, and you really don’t get a grade for it. You are doing this because there is something in your heart that is saying you really care for this organization.  Have fun, but also get to work! =)

Signing Off,

Ingrid Mapanao (Akbayan Public Relations 2009-2010)

 Inspiration :] Thank You Ingrid.