Guinsaugon folk elect 4 new kagawads

SAINT BERNARD, Southern Leyte — Survivors of the massive mudslide that buried Barangay Guinsaugon here last Feb. 17 took advantage of their barangay assembly Friday night to elect four new councilmen to replace those killed in the tragedy.

One by one, the Guinsaugon folk came up to the blackboard and marked their votes in the tallies of the listed candidates.

Day-care worker Norma Navos identified the chosen four as Ricardo Sibunga, Felix Coquilla, Aniceto Libaton, and a certain Vanzuela.

They would take the place of Rosita Coquilla, Roberto Peligro, and Sherlita Pia, among those missing and presumed dead in the mudslide.

The last kagawad slot will be left vacant by first councilman Eglecerio Coquilla who, under the succession law, would assume the post of barangay chairman Absalon Libaton, also one of the missing.

Also missing in the mudslide are the barangay secretary and treasurer, Visminda Bolasco and Simplecia Lisondra, respectively, and Sang—guniang Kabataan chairman Jordan Arbiol, whose replacements have yet to be appointed.

Jovito Lacaba, provincial director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, said Guinsaugon retains its status as a distinct barangay even if its remaining populace is relocated to Barangay Magbagacay.