Gwen swears in new Barili barangay chief

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia yesterday swore into office Lauro Gemillan, elected first councilman of barangay Luhod, Barili, as the barangay’s new chief following the death of barangay captain Vicente Apao last December 22.

Apao met his untimely death after he was bumped by a speeding motorcycle.

Apao’s son, Marvin, was also appointed as councilman to fill in a vacant position in the barangay council, as recommended by the council members themselves.

Yesterday’s oath taking ceremony at the Capitol Social Hall was attended by 36 captains of the different barangays in Barili.

In her speech, Garcia called for unity among the officials of Barili and to set aside political bickering. She also called on the town’s leaders to cooperate in programs initiated by the provincial government.

Garcia said she and her brother, third district Rep. Pablo John Garcia, are willing to sit down with the town’s officials to discuss plans for improvement and to tackle possible solutions of pressing problems such as water shortage.

Garcia also took the opportunity to clarify insinuations that her family has political leaders in Barili held on the neck.

“As far as the Garcias are concerned, there is absolutely no need for the officials in every district in Barili na manghupot sa mga Garcia kay daghan kaayong mga matinud-anong opisyales ug mga tawo sa Barili,” Garcia said.

Garcia said she is even willing to support the administration of Barili town mayor Teresito “Undo” Mariñas who happens to be a member of the opposition. — Bentley Naire Luyong (THE FREEMAN)