By CESAR JOLITO III

A leadership transition took place in Cadiz Sangguniang Panlungsod after retired Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) chief Winona Balagosa was sworn in as the incoming city councilor, replacing outgoing Councilor Frances Guanzon.

Balagosa took her oath on Thursday, June 18, before United Negros Alliance chairman and Negros Occidental 2nd District Representative Alfredo Marañon III, witnessed by Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante, Jr. and Guanzon.

Escalante confirmed that Balagosa will formally assume office on June 30, the same day Guanzon’s resignation takes effect.

She will also take her oath as a full-fledged member of the city council on the same date.

According to Escalante, Guanzon had been chairing key social welfare committees within the city council.

They found Balagosa to be the most suitable replacement given her background in public social welfare service.

Balagosa is expected to take over committee responsibilities previously handled by Guanzon, particularly those focused on social welfare and community development programs.

The transition is intended to ensure continuity in the council’s social services agenda as the new member assumes office./CCJ, WDJ