Pinoy Workers Party-list Rep. Karl Josef Legazpi has formally assumed the congressional seat previously held by his brother Franz Vincent, following internal changes within the party-list group.
The older Legazpi, who previously served as commissioner-at-large of the National Youth Commission, said his transition into the House of Representatives reflects his continued work on labor and youth-related concerns, noting that he has “risen from the ranks” through government service.
In a recent interview, Legazpi discussed party-list procedures that allow the replacement of nominees under Commission on Elections (Comelec) guidelines, citing personal and academic reasons behind earlier changes in the party’s lineup.
“Na intindihan namin ng mga partido bakit sila nagpaalam… minabuti po niyang [Franz] na tapusin muna ang law school at makapagbar,” he said, referring to hsi brother who stepped down to pursue legal studies.
Legazpi emphasized that party-list groups are allowed to update their nominees in accordance with Comelec rules, particularly when vacancies arise.
“Kasama doon ang pag-respect ng COMELEC sa proseso ng party list na mag-submit ng listahan ng nominees kung sakali may mga umalis,” he said.
On policy priorities, Legazpi said the party-list will focus on wage reform, including calls to review minimum wage levels across provinces in light of rising living costs.
“Ang cost of living halos parehas ngayon dahil taas ang presyo ng bilihin,” he said, adding that disparities between Metro Manila and provinces like Palawan need to be addressed.
He said the group supports efforts to align wages more closely with current economic conditions, noting that regional differences in cost of living should be reassessed.
Legazpi also outlined support for livelihood programs being implemented in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), including efforts to institutionalize the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) through legislation.
“Mas matagal at mas sustainable ang epekto ng programa,” he said, referring to proposals to strengthen long-term government assistance for beneficiaries.
He added that pilot programs in Palawan and Puerto Princesa have helped shape the party-list’s push for expanded national implementation.
Legazpi said he intends to continue engaging both national agencies and local stakeholders to advance labor protection, wage reform, and sustainable livelihood initiatives.
