Comelec Proclaims Winning Candidates in Negros Oriental
BACOLOD CITY – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially proclaimed the winning candidates in Negros Oriental following the recent elections. The announcement confirmed the reelection of Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria and the victory of his running mate, Siaton Mayor Fritz Diaz. The winning candidates in Negros Oriental now prepare to lead the province with a renewed mandate from their constituents.
Governor Sagarbarria Secures Mandate Amidst Political Challenges
Governor Sagarbarria initially assumed office after the passing of Governor Carlo Jorge Joan Reyes in May 2023. Reyes had succeeded Governor Roel Degamo, who was tragically assassinated earlier that year in March. Sagarbarria defeated former Bayawan City Mayor Henry Teves, who is the brother of the ousted Negros Oriental third district Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., a figure linked by some reports to the Degamo assassination—a claim denied by the former representative.
Governor Degamo had previously unseated Mayor Teves in the May 2022 elections after the Comelec credited votes from a nuisance candidate named “Ruel Degamo” to Degamo. Despite the political turbulence, Sagarbarria expressed gratitude to the voters, saying, “The people have spoken. Your unwavering trust, kindness, and encouragement mean the world to me. To the 365,020 voters, thank you very much. To all my beloved Negrenses, your love and solidarity inspire me every day to serve you better.”
Vice Governor Diaz and Other Elected Officials Take Their Places
Siaton Mayor Fritz Diaz, who is the nephew of Degamo’s widow and current third district representative-elect Janice Degamo, emerged victorious against two contenders for the vice governor position. After his proclamation, Diaz shared his appreciation, stating, “This is God’s will. I am very happy.” He also pledged to address the needs of the people through various government programs.
The election results also saw the election of Emmanuel Iway as the first district representative and Maria Isabel Sagarbarria as the second district representative. Meanwhile, the provincial board members elected include Angel Amador, Jessica Jane Villanueva, and Rusty Serion for the first district; Nyrth Christian Degamo, Erwin Macias, Woodrow Maquiling Sr., and Jun Apolinario Arnaiz Jr. for the second district; and Peter Paul Renacia, Marcelo Adanza, and Carlo Remontal for the third district.
Newly Elected Mayors Across Negros Oriental
The elections also brought a fresh lineup of mayors across the province’s municipalities and cities. Among those elected were Manuel Jose Sycip in Amlan; Dennis Amancio in Ayungon; Lenin Alviola in Bacong; Luigi Marcel Goni in Bais City; and Jory Wagas in Basay. Other winners include John Raymond Jr. in Bayawan City, Enieco Jabagat in Bindoy, Jose Chubasco Cardenas in Canlaon City, Galicano Truita in Dauin, Manuel Sagarbarria in Dumaguete City, and Filomeno Reyes in Guihulngan City.
Additional elected mayors are Hazel Tuanda (Jimalalud), Lawrence Limkaichong Jr. (La Libertad), Ernie Uy (Mabinay), Raffy Alipio Andaya (Manjuyod), Nikko Ramirez (Pamplona), Mel Nick Logronio (San Jose), Peve Ligan (Santa Catalina), Albert Ator (Siaton), Jose Abiera (Sibulan), Jose Orlino (Tanjay City), Susano Antonio Ruperto (Tayasan), Edgar Teves (Valencia), and Aloma Monica Serion (Vallehermoso).
Governor Sagarbarria congratulated all the newly elected public officials, encouraging them to serve with courage and integrity. He said, “May your time be guided by the aspirations of those you serve, as well as the genuine wisdom of public service.” He also wished them resilience to continue advocating for the welfare of every citizen in Negros Oriental.
High Voter Turnout Reflects Strong Civic Engagement
The elections in Negros Oriental recorded an impressive turnout of 85.23 percent, with 831,963 voters participating. This robust participation reflects the active involvement of Negrenses in shaping their local leadership.
For more news and updates on winning candidates in Negros Oriental, visit Filipinokami.com.