By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A heated political exchange between two councilors in Negros Occidental’s Talisay City nearly turned into a fistfight during their Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) regular session last Monday, February 19.

Councilor Rolin Meliton delivered his privilege speech regarding the city government’s housing program, wherein he raised several concerns.

During the speech, Meliton reportedly directed his remarks to Councilor Randy Ereñeta, SP chairman of the housing committee, on the program updates last year.

Ereñeta tried to address Meliton’s concerns, but there was no clarity to the issue.

Both parties got into a heated argument.

Talisay Vice Mayor Nic Jalandoni broke the heated exchange by calling for a recess.

However, Ereñeta stood up from his chair and allegedly tried to approach Meliton.

The incident was only averted after other council members intervened and blocked Ereñeta from approaching Meliton.

Ereñeta allegedly shouted at Meliton, challenging him to a fistfight outside the session hall.

Other council members suggested giving them time to cool down.

They pointed at a possible misunderstanding between the two councilors as the cause of the heated exchange.

Both sides have also yet to release their comments over the incident./DGB, WDJ