MABALACAT NEWLY-ELECTED BARANGAY OFFICIALS TAKE OATH

BY KEVIN GALANG

MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga — Mayor Crisostomo Garbo officiated the oath-taking of the newly-elected and reelected barangay officials of the 27 barangays in this city in a ceremony held at the Royce Hotel in Clark.

The event, attended by Pampanga Gov. Dennis “Delta” Pineda, Vice Mayor Gerald Guttrie Aquino, and councilors Cherry Manalo, Noel Castro, Doc Cocoy Tiglao, Rox Peña, Carl Dizon, Jerry Magsino, Marjorie Sambo, and Liza Pineda, was a testament to the city’s commitment to good governance and compassionate public service.

Vice Mayor Geld Aquino gave the opening remarks, welcoming the officials and encouraging them to work together for the good of Mabalacat City.

Governor Pineda delivered a rousing inspirational message, highlighting the importance of the barangay officials’ role in the local governance and community development.

In his address, Mayor Garbo laid out a bold vision for the city, focusing on three key areas of concern: Solid waste management, the fight against illegal drugs, and the need to reduce excessive politicking.

On the issue of solid waste, Garbo expressed his aversion to seeing the city marred by waste. He announced that in December, the local government unit (LGU) will release an Executive Order (EO) creating the clustering of Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in the city. This initiative aims to enhance the city’s waste management system and ensure the cleanliness and environmental sustainability of Mabalacat.

On the war against illegal drugs, the mayor stressed the necessity of an EO that will strengthen the campaign against illegal drugs at the barangay level. He emphasized that barangay officials, being on the frontlines of local governance, play a critical role in this fight.

The Malabalacat mayor also addressed the issue of excessive politicking. He urged the new officials to put more effort into political will and public service, rather than engaging in unnecessary political maneuvering. He emphasized that good governance should take precedence over political interests for the betterment of the city.

The ceremony ended on a high note, with renewed commitment from the officials to serve the people of Mabalacat City with zeal and dedication.