Tuesday, July 1, 2025. The provincial capitol grounds were manicured with a simple tone. Chairs were segregated—for regional directors, the officers and gentlemen of the Philippine National Police (PNP), and invited guests.
On the other side were seats for department heads and members of the Sanggunian Panlalawigan (SP) or provincial board members.
The day was set aside for the formal takeover of Juliette Uy, the newly elected provincial governor of Misamis Oriental. Excitement and enthusiasm filled the atmosphere in anticipation of the inaugural speech of the incoming provincial governor. Uy delivered an inaugural address exhorting unity and cooperation with her administration.
Certainly, Uy was appealing for unity with the SP members who belonged to the other side of the political fence.
However, in the absence of the elected SP members, Uy’s clarion call for unity seemed like a gesture between surrender and supplication.
The lack of SP members was a bad omen for Uy’s administration. It is clear that without the backing and support of the SP, Uy’s development plans for Misamis Oriental would be in vain.
Uy’s administration should make efforts to resolve the situation at the earliest opportunity. This means that constructive negotiations with the SP should be credibly carried out.
Discussing credibility involves setting aside political and personal pride. Agreements should be honored, especially regarding movements, promotions, and hiring workers.
