Garbin vows to heal wounds of political division in Legazpi

By Rhaydz Barcia

Legazpi City --- Amid the climate of distrust, division, and controversy surrounding the recent political developments in Albay, newly installed Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr. has called on Legazpeños to unite, respect the rule of law, and move forward together. This appeal follows the Supreme Court and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc ruling affirming Garbin as the duly elected mayor of Legazpi City.

Clad in a white polo shirt and denim pants, Garbin took his oath of office Tuesday, joined by jubilant supporters and party allies. The event marked the culmination of a contentious legal battle that lasted nearly three years.

“After almost three years, this case has finally reached its rightful conclusion,” Garbin said. “I am forever grateful to the Supreme Court for their unanimous decision, which upholds the law and affirms the Comelec en banc’s ruling declaring me as the duly elected mayor of Legazpi City. Salamat sa saindong daing sawang suporta asin pangadye. Padagos pong magseserbi sa namumutan kong Legazpi (Thank you for your unwavering support and prayers. I will continue to serve my beloved Legazpi).”

When asked how he plans to address the wounds caused by the political chaos, Garbin acknowledged that healing will take time but emphasized that his administration will focus on good governance and public service.

“The wounds will heal over time. I will focus on uniting our constituency by demonstrating integrity and fulfilling our obligations,” Garbin said. “Our priority will be education, tourism, health, sports development, and programs for youth and the elderly. We will also promote multi-sectoral initiatives and support for our senior citizens.”

The Controversy

Garbin assumed office after the Supreme Court disqualified former Mayor Carmen Geraldine Rosal for violating the Omnibus Election Code. Rosal and her husband, former Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal, were accused of distributing cash aid to senior citizens and tricycle drivers during the campaign period, an act deemed a misuse of government funds under election laws.

The Comelec en banc’s disqualification ruling was upheld by the Supreme Court in its October 22, 2024 decision, which also lifted the status quo ante order that had previously barred Garbin from assuming office. The ruling nullified Rosal’s proclamation and directed the Special City Board of Canvassers to install Garbin as mayor.

Criticism and Questions

The Supreme Court’s decision has sparked outrage among some Legazpeños, including retired University of Santo Tomas professor Engr. Vergilio S. Perdigon, who argued that the ruling subverts the “sovereign will of the people.”

“The highest law is the people’s verdict, far superior to any procedural detail,” Perdigon said in a social media post. He questioned why the court’s decision did not consider Republic Act 10121, which he believes supersedes provisions of the Omnibus Election Code.

Former Albay Vice Governor Marcial Lito Estevez Tuanqui Jr. echoed the public’s confusion, stating, “Politics in Albay is chaotic. It’s too personal now compared to 30 years ago.”

Garbin’s Plans

Amid the political noise, Garbin aims to focus on addressing pressing issues such as water and power shortages and improving healthcare services.

“We will work on securing reliable and cheaper power. I will seek the assistance of Cong. Zaldy Co for the total rehabilitation of ALECO (Albay Electric Cooperative). For health services, P50 million has already been allocated to the Legazpi City Hospital,” Garbin said.

He reiterated his commitment to transparency and inclusivity, promising that his administration would be anchored on fairness and the rule of law.

“Watch me as I strive to improve our city’s services,” Garbin said, calling on Legazpeños to come together for the betterment of the city.

With only seven months remaining in his term, Garbin’s leadership faces the challenge of healing a politically fractured city while delivering results to its citizens.