By Charles Gavaran
Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials took their oath of office at the Ynares Event Center on Thursday, November 16, 2023 to formally begin their terms in their respective barangay.
More than 256 victorious officials from 16 barangay in Antipolo City took part including 16 elected Punong Barangay, 56 Sangguniang Barangay Kagawad, 16 Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson and 56 SK Kagawad. They pledged to faithfully perform their duties and serve their barangay.
The oath-taking was attended by distinguished guests and government officials including Governor Nina Ricci Ynares, Mayor Casimiro Jun Ynares III, Vice Mayor Josephina G. Gatlabayan, Congressman of Antipolo 1st district Roberto V. Puno, Provincial Board Member Randy Puno and former Congressman of Antipolo 2nd District Angelito C. Gatlabayan.
Vice Mayor Gatlabayan opened the oath-taking with the remarks, “bring the best that you can do for your constituents… as a public official we are expected to consider two things: first, we should make use of all necessary approach to manage our barangay. Second, consider not our personal interests.” She also emphasized the importance of making our City of Antipolo number 1 in all aspects.
The address of Congressman of Antipolo 1st district Puno followed. He said, “Public office is a public trust… we are here because we want to find ourselves and to also advice the people who wants to find themselves.” He ended his speech with the famous saying of Mahatma Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to find yourself in the service of others.”
Governor Ynares also gave a message explaining Serbisyong totoong may Puso. “Kayo ay Barangay Heroes sa kaunlaran at katiwasayan sa bawat barangay. Ang barangay ay parang pamilya. Tayo ay Superheroes na handang gawin ang lahat para sa bayan,” she said.
The oath of office (panunumpa ng katungkulan) started with the Sanguniang Kabataan Chairpersons and SK Council. This was followed by the oath of office of the newly elected Sanguniang Kabataan Federation Officials in Antipolo City which included the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Auditor and Public Relations Officer.
Mayor Ynares led the 16 Punong Barangay and the respective Kagawad take their oath of office. He emphasized the value of being in the pubic position and informed them that their term will end on December 2025.
The ceremonies ended after every newly elected and re-elected barangay and SK official were called on stage for a photo opportunity with the Governor, Mayor and Vice Mayor.