(1st Update) Kabankalan City has officially turned a political page as Mayor Benjie Miranda and Vice Mayor Divinagracia Miranda took their oaths of office on Monday, June 30.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the city public plaza, brought together local officials, supporters, and residents.
Miranda, now on his second term, assumed office amid corruption allegations from his first three years in power. He had earlier responded to these issues in interviews, maintaining that he had worked with honesty and integrity, and attributing the accusations to political motivations meant to discredit his administration.
His wife and new Vice Mayor, Divinagracia Miranda, addressed the crowd during the ceremony, expressing a firm commitment to uphold the public interest over self-interest.
She emphasized her intention to lead the city council with integrity and collaboration.
The newly-elected vice mayor called for unity among city officials, regardless of political affiliations, and expressed the belief that through collective action and cooperation between the legislative and executive branches, the city could move forward.
City Administrator Mac Lord Zafra, who delivered the opening remarks, framed the occasion as more than ceremonial. He described it as a collective affirmation of democratic will and shared responsibility.
Zafra also urged the city’s leaders to begin healing political divides and focus on working together for the common good.
The Mirandas campaigned on a platform anchored in “gugma” (love) and “kabalaka” (concern), advocating for inclusive governance, grassroots engagement, and ethical public service.
With their tandem now leading both the executive and legislative arms of the local government, residents and observers alike are watching closely to see whether the new administration can deliver on its promises of reform and transparent leadership.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.