The 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod of Ormoc City has officially revealed the city’s new power structure with a strategic reshuffling of committee assignments following its first regular session on July 1. The assignments confirm where real authority lies in Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez’s current administration — and who is expected to shape Ormoc’s legislative and political direction over the next three years.
While the confirmation of top city officials grabbed headlines, the distribution of committee chairmanships quietly placed several new and returning city councilors in commanding positions across critical sectors, from public safety and health to tourism and civil society.
Larrazabal takes lead on safety and infrastructure
SP Member Ari G. Larrazabal now chairs two high-impact committees: Public Works and Infrastructure Development, and Public Safety, Peace and Order. His appointment to these portfolios places him at the forefront of Ormoc’s ongoing development and urban planning efforts.
Public infrastructure and peacekeeping are often politically sensitive areas, especially in growing cities like Ormoc, where the balance between progress and public order can affect both local business and community stability. Larrazabal’s dual role is seen as both a test and an opportunity.
Kierulf tapped for health and education
SP Member Edmund B. Kierulf is now leading the Committee on Health, Nutrition and Sanitation as well as the Committee on Education and Manpower Development. These assignments signal an intensified focus on improving public health systems and addressing workforce gaps.
With post-pandemic recovery and malnutrition concerns still looming in the region, Kierulf’s role could prove pivotal in guiding new policies related to preventive care, hospital access, and early education.
Serafica to oversee agriculture and CSO accreditation
In a move welcomed by farmer cooperatives and rural stakeholders, SP Member Tomas R. Serafica was named chair of the Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform. He was also assigned to lead the Committee on Cooperatives, Accreditation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and People’s Participation.
His leadership is expected to influence the city’s direction on agrarian programs, subsidy allocations, and partnerships with non-governmental actors. These are key areas as Ormoc continues to harness its agricultural potential and engage more grassroots movements in policymaking.
Lucero gains critical oversight and justice roles
SP Member Jasper M. Lucero emerged as one of the most powerful figures in the new council setup. In addition to chairing the Committee on Public Properties and Economic Enterprises, he now heads the Committee on Civil Service, Appointments and Government Organization — giving him a direct hand in personnel and structural reforms.
Lucero also chairs the Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Blue Ribbon, Administrative Cases and Oversight. With these multiple roles, he is seen as a central figure in holding agencies accountable and ensuring legal transparency in council affairs.
Lucero’s influence was already visible during the confirmation of City Legal Officer Atty. Josephine M. Romero and City Administrator Vincent L. Emnas, both of which he motioned during the July 1 session.
Mercadal controls labor and tourism strategy
Newly seated SP Member Krizea C. A. Mercadal will oversee the Committee on Livelihood, Labor, Employment and OFWs and the Committee on Tourism, Culture, Heritage and the Arts. These areas are crucial in shaping Ormoc’s identity both as a working city and a tourist destination.
Her dual appointment suggests a strategy that connects job creation with cultural revitalization. As more overseas workers return and the city positions itself as a domestic travel hub, Mercadal’s committees will play an increasingly visible role.
Marcos focuses on environment and finance
SP Member Lalaine A. Marcos now leads the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Energy Conservation and the Committee on Ways and Means. This pairing of environmental oversight and fiscal legislation places her in charge of both green policy and revenue matters — an influential combination as Ormoc expands development projects while addressing climate-related concerns.
Observers believe Marcos will be key in pushing regulations on energy use, waste reduction, and sustainable financing in city operations.
Laurente heads barangay affairs
SP Member Esteban V. Laurente was designated to chair the Committee on Barangay Affairs and Rural Development, which provides direct oversight on barangay governance and rural project implementation. His assignment positions him as a vital link between the city council and Ormoc’s far-flung communities.
Laurente is expected to handle concerns on barangay leadership, local ordinances, and funding allocations to ensure that rural areas are not left behind in the city’s overall development plan.
Calixtro leads youth and sports
At the forefront of youth policy is SP Member Jhana Lyka T. Calixtro, who now chairs the Committee on Youth and Sports Development. With many young people in Ormoc calling for more programs in sports, mental health, and education, Calixtro’s leadership could be decisive in turning these priorities into legislation.
Youth development has often taken a back seat in previous councils, but with Calixtro’s appointment, insiders expect more aggressive policymaking in the sector.
Power dynamics shifting behind the scenes
The committee reshuffling reflects broader strategy in governance. Each chairperson now controls a specific budget and legislative agenda — and potentially the loyalty of their respective departments and stakeholder networks.
These appointments will affect everything from how fast permits are approved to how programs for vulnerable groups are prioritized. While Mayor Torres-Gomez retains executive power, this new distribution in the legislative branch shows a calculated move toward policy-driven leadership.
City Hall insiders say that the quiet maneuvering that led to these appointments has reshaped alliances within the council. Several of the new chairpersons are expected to emerge as potential political contenders in the 2028 elections — if their committees deliver results.
As the city navigates post-pandemic recovery, rapid urban growth, and increasing political pressure, Ormoc’s latest power lineup might be one bold resolution away from its next major shake-up.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.