Sambo: A Life of Faith,Service, Leadership

by Miriam G. Desacada

Politicians usually view government as an institution of power, wealth, and influence, but former Tacloban City Vice Mayor Jerry Yaokasin sees it as an instrument of service.

Jerry Sambo Yaokasin, popularly known as “Sambo,” has etched his name as a distinguished businessman, public servant, pastor, and community leader, which has s made him one of the most respected personalities in Tacloban City, Leyte, and across Eastern Visayas.

In his two decades as a servant-leader, Sambo started as a Punong Barangay for two years, then as city councilor for nine years (three terms), and as city vice mayor also for nine years (three terms). His entry into public service began from the grassroots up, which explains why he gained recognition for his practical approach in governance, rooted in his ever-accessible nature to constituents.

Sambo’s political journey is anchored in his faith in God, viewing public office as a sacred stewardship from God. He believes that leaders, as stewards and not rulers, should embody the biblical values of justice, humility, integrity, and love for their neighbors.

He calls public service as servant leadership because, for him, public office is a responsibility entrusted to him by God and the people. More than power and titles, he said leaders must be defined by the positive impact they have on the hearts and lives of others.

Raised in a family of Christian faith that values hard work and empathy, Sambo entered politics believing in a compassionate and morally grounded government—principles that shaped his understanding of leadership and public responsibility. In local governance, he has consistently pushed for programs that support ordinary citizens facing poverty, unemployment, and limited opportunities.

He has this strong conviction that government must remain closest to the people, thus the ARC (accessibility, responsiveness, and compassion) principle is the hallmark of his leadership brand. He firmly believes that listening is the foundation of effective governance. “One can’t lead without an ear to the people,” he said, believing that listening to public sentiments draws the most effective response.

His education provided practical knowledge in management and community relations, which prepared him for a career blending business and public service. Throughout his professional life, he highlighted the importance of integrity, accountability, and responsible leadership.

Before entering politics, Sambo established himself as a successful businessman, a life that exposed him to the complex predicaments in business, which in turn provided him with firsthand understanding of local economic realities. This also moved him, during his term in the City Council, to institute measures that keep the city’s economy in step with business flows and cycles at a given time.

He also advocated measures to improve public services, strengthen local governance, and promote inclusive economic growth. Colleagues and constituents alike recognized his ability to work across political lines in pursuit of the common good.

Sambo envisions a united society and citizenry to make matters reach a better end for all. He said churches, civic organizations, the business sector, and non-governmental organizations should work together with the government, sharing a purpose and commitment to the common good.

Sambo is known for supporting cultural initiatives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he launched a barter program that exchanged food for historical items for a local museum project focused on preserving Tacloban’s heritage.

Aside from business and politics, Sambo has been active in Christian ministry and has served as a pastor and speaker in various religious and family-oriented programs.

One of the defining periods of Sambo’s public service came during the aftermath of super-typhoon Yolanda, one of the most devastating disasters in the country’s history. With limited resources at the time, Sambo struggled to help initiatives aimed at restoring and rebuilding the city, and assisting displaced families.

SAMBO’S VISIONS FOR TACLOBAN:

Yaokasin foresees Tacloban City as a model highly urbanized city not only in Eastern Visayas but throughout the Philippines — a city where economic progress is matched by social responsibility, moral leadership, and inclusive growth.

For him, development is not measured solely by roads, buildings, and investments, but by the quality of life enjoyed by every Taclobanon. Having witnessed Tacloban’s struggles and resilience through natural disasters and economic challenges, he remains confident that the city’s best years are still ahead.

Central to this vision are quality education, accessible healthcare, sustainable livelihood opportunities, environmental protection, youth empowerment, and efficient public services. Sambo believes that progress must benefit all sectors of society, ensuring that workers, farmers, fisherfolk, transport groups, entrepreneurs, and marginalized communities all share in the city’s growth and prosperity.

Sambo also promotes youth development by investing in young people through education, skills training, sports development, and leadership opportunities. In building Tacloban’s future, he sees the youth as both beneficiaries of government programs and partners in nation-building.

Guided by faith and a commitment to public service, he believes that Tacloban can emerge as a prosperous, compassionate, and globally competitive city through responsible leadership, transparent governance, and active citizen participation, while remaining firmly rooted in God, family, and community.

SAMBO’S NUGGETS OF WISDOM
–On city fiesta:
More than the sumptuous feasts and colorful decorations, the true meaning of our fiesta lies in our gratitude to God for His countless blessings and in the beautiful spirit of community that binds us all.

–on justice:
Justice has failed when the law bends to shield the corrupt and protect criminals, rather than defend innocent children and law-abiding citizens.

–on leadership:
The true measure of a leader is not found in the calm of consensus, but in the crucible of crisis.

–on country:
Our country is at a political crossroads … let us pray for our country. Let us pray that truth and justice will prevail. May God bless the Philippines, guide our leaders, and grant us discernment.

–on religious differences:

Our differences should never be a cause for war or division. Instead, we must let our religious and cultural diversity unite us as a people and nation.

–on political reforms:
Politics will remain dirty if all we do is complain and stay on the sidelines. Change begins when we step forward, get involved, and help solve the problems facing our community.