CEBU, Philippines – After snubbing his last session with the City Council last month, former Guadalupe Barangay Captain Eugenio Faelnar formally bid farewell to the Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) yesterday.
Faelnar turned over the ABC presidency to Barangay T. Padilla's Michael Ralota who won over Busay's Eliodoro Sanchez by 30 votes during yesterday's ABC elections.
Faelnar sat as ex-officio member of the City Council for three terms since being elected barangay captain of Guadalupe in 2002 and eventually as president of ABC.
In his speech, Faelnar said he is thankful to those who supported his leadership in ABC and apologized to those who are "not convinced" of his efforts.
Faelnar said his stint as ABC president for two consecutive terms had been a challenge, what with the criticisms he has received, including a recent controversy involving the alleged anomalous implementation of barangay projects.
"But I thanked these people because I considered them an inspiration and part of the challenge. At least, Jing-jing Faelnar is worth their time and attention," he said.
He said that his conscience remains clear as no one "went out and went to court to prove their allegations."
Faelnar also congratulated the new set of ABC officers and assured them he will be available should they seek his advice.
"As your friend and not as ABC president, I would like to tell you that whatever good things the ABC has started, continue doing it. Whatever good plans you have for the association then venture (into) it. Avoid being critics all the time especially if you have not been there, because I am sure you will have your own judge while serving until your term ends," Faelnar said.
He also advised the new officers to always listen to all sides in every issue.
"Amigong dili mutraydor just to be in the position I may be aiming… para sa new officers, paminawon lang gyud ang tanang kapitan. Kay di man ta kabalo unsay sulod sa utok sa 80 kabuok kapitan. Usahay maayo sila sa atubang, inig talikod nimo, libakon sad ka." Faelnar said.
Faelnar went on leave before his term ended last November 30 when allegations involving alleged irregularities in the awarding and bidding of barangay projects broke out. (FREEMAN)