BACOLOD City – Barangay 18 captain Madilyn Diaz has been chosen to administer the oath of outgoing Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez, who is now the congressman-elect of Bacolod’s lone district.
In a press conference held on June 2 at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), Mayor Benitez revealed his decision, citing Diaz’s distinction as the city’s longest-serving barangay captain.
The tentative date for his oath-taking is set for June 18.
Meanwhile, an induction ceremony for all newly elected officials is scheduled for June 28, which will include the official turnover of office and Benitez’s State of the City Address (SOCA).
Mayor Benitez will be succeeded by Mayor-elect Greg Gasataya, the outgoing congressman of Bacolod.
Mayor Benitez also shared that he will temporarily hold office at the Sixty Fifth Hotel, located across the BCGC, while the new Legislative and City Hall buildings are under construction. These will house the permanent congressional offices in the future.
When asked about any plans to run for House Speaker, he responded, “As of now, wala pa plano. I have not even done anything to seek that position. I told everybody that I moved to the congressional position to really promote the interest of the city.”
He added that with around 100 new members joining the 20th Congress, the selection of the next House Speaker will depend on the consensus of the chamber./PN
