Pampanga’s Third District boasts of a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty and thriving development. Nestled within its boundaries are charming towns and bustling cities, each contributing to the district’s unique character. The district consists of the provincial capital city of San Fernando and the adjacent municipalities of Arayat, Bacolor, Mexico, and Santa Ana.
Under the astute leadership of Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr., Pampanga’s Third District has undergone a remarkable transformation. The district, once a place of natural wonders and historical landscapes, has now become a thriving hub of progress. The modern infrastructure, efficient transportation networks, well-maintained roads and bridges, and the modernization of educational and medical institutions have all contributed to the improved quality of life for the residents. This progress has not only met their fundamental health, knowledge, and livelihood needs but also instilled a deep sense of pride and satisfaction in the community.
Yet infrastructure can only go some ways. Another true testament to the district’s success is having capable leaders who can leverage available resources and guide the people toward a better path. For Pampanga’s Third District, this role falls on the shoulders of Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr.
Known affectionately as “Dong” by many, Rep. Gonzales has a deep-rooted connection to Pampanga. He was born and raised in the province, where he also completed his primary and secondary education at Anao Elementary School from 1969 to 1975 and Anao High School from 1975 to 1979, respectively, in Mexico, Pampanga.
He then studied Civil Engineering from 1979 to 1984 and Environmental and Sanitary Engineering from 1987 to 1989 at the Mapua Institute of Technology in Manila. His background in the discipline led him to become the President and CEO of A.D. Gonzales, Jr. Construction and Trading Co., Inc. from 1987 to 2007 and again from 2013 to 2016.
Despite his illustrious career in his field, Rep. Gonzales Jr. remained affectionate toward his province. His political journey began with becoming a Provincial Board Member from 2004 to 2007. Eventually, fate led him to the House of Representatives, where he held office during the 14th and 15th Congress and again during the 17th until the 19th Congress.
In 2023, the district representative provided social assistance to his constituents for education, finances, and livelihood, further empowering his district to pursue their interests and realize their potential.
Rep. Gonzales Jr. remains active in aiding beneficiaries in 2024. For instance, the Department of Health’s Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients (DOH MAIP) reached 44,145, while the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (DOLE-TUPAD) program under the district representative reached 36,652, adding to the growing numbers of beneficiaries in his administration.
The House of Representatives duly recognized the district representative’s capabilities, giving him roles as the Assistant Majority Leader during the 15th Congress, the Deputy Majority Leader and Vice Chairman of the Committee of Public Works and Highways in the 17th Congress, Chairperson of the Special Committee on Bases Conversion in the 18th Congress.
In the 19th Congress, he holds the distinction of Senior Deputy Speaker.
Rep. Gonzales Jr. has a robust legislative record, having authored 188 bills and co-authored 28 others. His dedication to his community in Pampanga’s Third District is evident in his numerous efforts.
Moreover, the district representative has left an indelible mark on his district through his legislative efforts. Some of the bills he principally authored focus on empowering his district. For instance, Republic Act No. 9506, or “Dong Gonzales Law,” is “An Act Creating the Bacolor Rehabilitation Council and Appropriating Funds Therefor.” Other laws include Republic Act No. 9832, which aims to convert the Don Honorio Ventura College of Arts and Trades into the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University, and Republic Act No. 11169, or “An Act Renaming The Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) In The Municipality Of Bacolor, Province Of Pampanga As The Don Honorio Ventura State University(DHVSU), And Expanding Its Curricular Offerings.” These laws have not only brought about tangible changes but also empowered the district, fostering a sense of progress and development.
Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr. continues to build a solid foundation for Pampanga’s Third District and leads his constituents toward a better future by example. He shows that good governance should be a staple in promoting a community’s growth.
