By Helen Castaño | 01:26 AM June 30, 2025
INABANGA, BOHOL — The winds of change swept through Inabanga as newly-elected officials took their oath of office on Sunday, June 29, at the Inabanga Gymnasium, formally marking the end of a 40-year political dynasty.
Mayor-elect Dexter Muneses Ancla officially took his oath before Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for the municipality.
Vice Mayor Hermogenes Cenabre was also sworn in by Aumentado in the same ceremony.
Completing the fresh slate of municipal leaders, the newly-elected members of the Sangguniang Bayan — Fermin Divinagracia, Louie Francis Abisado, Francis Aparicio Celmar, Romil Petecio, Warren Alesna, Kitty Jumao-as, Roel Bautista Fortich, and Teddy Lamorin — took their oath before 2nd District Representative Vanessa Aumentado.
For many residents, the event felt historic, as it marked the conclusion of the Jumamoy family’s four-decade-long hold on Inabanga’s local politics.
In his inaugural address, Ancla expressed gratitude to his family — wife Stella and their children — for their unwavering support during the grueling campaign.
“The journey was rough. It was not easy,” said Ancla. “Help us achieve our goal — to make Inabanga great again.”
He also called for unity and humility among public servants, reminding constituents of his commitment to remain accessible.
“Ajaw ko tan-awa nga mayor kundi inyong igsuon nga mutabang kaninyo. Ayaw na hunahunaa nga usa ko ka dakong tawo kay pareho ratag level,” he told the crowd.
As the municipality turns a new page, residents are hopeful that the new leadership will bring in progress, inclusivity, and good governance.
Serve with integrity
The Aumentado couple congratulated the newly-elected officials of Inabanga and urged them to serve with integrity and commitment to public service.
In their message, the Aumentados expressed confidence in the leadership of Ancla-Cenabre, saying their administration would have the full support of the provincial government. Unlike the previous administration, Ancla is a political ally of Gov. Aumentado, paving the way for a smoother implementation of development projects in the municipality.
“We look forward to a more coordinated and collaborative governance in Inabanga. With unity, we can bring more programs and services to the people,” Gov. Aumentado said.
