By Ace Sapit

 

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines — Newly installed Baco Mayor Brederick ‘Eric’ V. Castillo has vowed to sustain the delivery of basic government services and continue programs aimed at improving residents’ welfare following the change in the municipality’s leadership.

In an official statement posted on the Baco PIO Facebook page on Oct. 24, Castillo said he would build on the programs and development initiatives of former Mayor Allan Roldan, stressing that the leadership transition should not disrupt services for the people of Baco.

“Sisikapin kong ipagpatuloy ang mga adhikain, pangarap, at programang inilatag ni Mayor Allan Roldan para sa ikabubuti ng ating bayan,” he said.

He acknowledged that the change in local leadership could raise concerns and prompt differing views among residents, urging them to remain calm and trust the rule of law and the country’s existing government institutions.

Castillo also called for unity, accountability, transparency, and good governance, saying the transition should be an opportunity to strengthen cooperation rather than fuel division, saying, “Hindi po ito panahon para sa sisihan o paghahati-hati.”

The mayor said he would work with the Sangguniang Bayan, led by newly appointed Vice Mayor Jay Lorence Najito, to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of essential local government services, particularly to residents who need immediate assistance and support.

He also appealed for the public’s understanding, prayers, and continued support as the local government navigates the leadership change.

Castillo assumed the mayoral post on Friday, Oct. 23, following the leadership transition involving Roldan, who was earlier reported to have been held administratively liable for grave misconduct. (AS/JBG/PIA MIMAROPA-Oriental Mindoro/Photo by Baco PIO)