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VICTORIAS CITY HOLDS OFFICIAL TURNOVER CEREMONY FOR INCOMING ADMINISTRATION
Outgoing City Mayor and Congressman-elect of the Third District of Negros Occidental, Javier Miguel Benitez, officially turned over the documents, as stipulated in DILG Memorandum Circular 2025-16, to the incoming administration of Mayor-elect Abelardo Bantug III during the Transition and Turnover Ceremony held at Pavilion II, Victorias Aquatic Center, on June 30.
The ceremony also featured the symbolic turnover of the Key of Responsibility, signifying the official start of the new administration and the smooth transition of leadership in the City of Victorias.
Cluster II Head of the Department of the Interior and Local Government for the Negros Island Region, Dr. Maria Nove Mejica, delivered a message highlighting the importance of observing the DILG memorandum on the establishment and operations of Local Governance Transition Teams.
She explained that this event was not only an act of compliance with national policy but also a demonstration of the city’s dedication to transparency, integrity, and accountability in public service.
Emotions filled the venue as city department heads and partner agency representatives shared their messages of gratitude to the outgoing mayor and expressed their support for the incoming mayor.
They also provided updates on their current programs and requested assistance for the continuation and development of ongoing and future projects.
Congressman Javi addressed the attendees with a heartfelt message, calling his time in office "the greatest privilege and honor of being your mayor."
He assured Mayor Bantug and the new administration that he remains available for any guidance they may need.
He also emphasized the importance of unity by stating, "No matter what happens, we are the same team and we will continue to work together for all Victoriasanons."
In his message of acceptance, Mayor Abelardo Bantug III emphasized that the new administration will be anchored on collaborative governance.
He affirmed that moving forward will require everyone to work as one and make decisions together.
During the ceremony, he also formally introduced members of his executive team, naming Atty. Meddie Arbolado Jr. as the new City Administrator and Atty. Ignacio Santillana as the new City Legal Officer.
As the leadership transition concludes, Victorias City stands at the threshold of a new chapter, with both outgoing and incoming leaders united in their commitment to serve the people and continue the journey toward a stronger and
more progressive Victorias City. *