Magalong won’t quit as Baguio mayor – BusinessWorld Online
BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong denied circulating rumors claiming he has stepped down from his post, following his appointment as special adviser and investigator for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI).
Calling the allegations false and misleading, the Baguio City mayor in an official statement on Monday, clarified that he remains in office and continues to fulfill his responsibilities to the people of Baguio.
“There is no truth to the claims that I have resigned,” Mr. Magalong said. “I remain your duly elected Mayor, fully committed to serving our city.”
The statement comes amid a wave of social media posts and online discussions speculating on his alleged resignation.
A workers’ group had also called for the Baguio City mayor to resign so that he can focus on his work as special adviser to the commission created by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to investigate anomalous flood control projects around the country.
Mr. Magalong emphasized that while he has recently accepted the appointment by Mr. Marcos, it does not conflict with or compromise his current role as mayor.
“This new responsibility is a national call to help ensure transparency and accountability in government infrastructure projects,” the Mayor explained. “However, my foremost duty and priority remain with the people of Baguio.”
He also assured the Baguio people, some expressing fears the city would suffer because he might miss his duties and functions as the city chief executive, “his involvement in the commission would not interfere with his day-to-day duties (as mayor).”
Mr. Magalong further underscored his administration’s continued commitment to good governance, transparency, and public service. — Artemio A. Dumlao
