Ayla Alim-Baldueza, Founding Partner, Belgica Aranas Baldueza Dela Cruz & Associates, The Philippines, Young Leaders Program (YLP) - School of Local Governance (2014)
Attorney Ayla Alim-Baldueza made history as the youngest councilor in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, winning a remarkable third place in the 2010 elections at just 23 years old. Despite limited campaign resources, she garnered overwhelming support and served her first term while passing the bar exams in 2012, earning a Special Award in Public Service. During her council tenure, she authored numerous ordinances and resolutions aimed at uplifting the marginalized, initiated scholarship programs, and provided legal assistance to those in need. She also briefly served as chief of staff in the Commission on Elections. After working in the government, she continued to practice law as one of the founding partners of a law firm, where she handles administrative matters. Balancing her professional life, she is also a dedicated wife and a mother to three young children.