City Council Suspends Barangay Langgam Chairman Amidst Tensions Over Liga ng Barangay Elections

City Council Suspends Barangay Langgam Chairman Amidst Tensions Over Liga ng Barangay Elections

By Kevin Pamatmat 

SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna (July 2, 2024) — In a sudden turn of events, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of San Pedro City, Laguna has issued a preventive suspension to Barangay Langgam Chairman Sammy Ilaha Rivera, sparking controversy and accusations of abuse of authority and political harassment.

The suspension, aimed at disqualifying Rivera from voting for the Liga ng Barangay Federation President to sit as an ex-officio member of the City Council, comes just days before the scheduled Liga ng Barangay elections on July 5. The decision was made during a meeting of the Association of Barangay Chairmen of San Pedro, where they were set to decide on the Election Committee (EleCom).

The move has been met with strong opposition, with allegations of injustice and political maneuvering flying from both sides. Earlier, Chairman Jun Ynion also faced a similar case as part of the unfolding drama within the local government.

Prominent lawyer Atty. Melvin Matibag weighed in on the situation, denouncing the perceived injustices and vowing to support those affected. "We will make a move to prevent the elections. It's a symbolic fight. I am supporting them 100%," Atty. Matibag declared.

The situation has escalated tensions within the community, with conflicts arising between neighboring barangays and even within families, particularly in San Pedro. Concerns have been raised about the integrity of the electoral process and the fairness of the decisions being made.

As the controversy unfolds, Atty. Matibag issued a plea for calm and dialogue among all parties involved. "Let us remain calm. Issues can be resolved through dialogue. While the mayor has not taken a stand on the issue, let us not resort to anger. Let us fight for what is right and what is on the side of the law," he urged.

The suspension of Rivera follows a similar action taken against Kap Resty, where the first councilor was appointed as the replacement. The sudden suspension has caused disruptions in the planned election proceedings, further fueling tensions and suspicions among the barangay leaders.

The unfolding events have left the community divided and uncertain about the future of their local governance, as allegations of power plays and manipulation continue to dominate the discourse.

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