Timbang takes oath as Bamban's acting mayor

Municipal Councilor Erano Timbang took his oath Wednesday as acting mayor of Bamban, Tarlac, replacing Alice Guo who was dismissed by the Ombudsman for grave misconduct.

Timbang, who opposed the issuance of a permit to a raided POGO firm and was acquitted by the anti-graft body, vowed continuous service for residents despite being the only official in town following suspensions of Vice Mayor Leonardo Anunciacion and nine other councilors also found guilty of conduct prejudicial to public service.

Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. swore in Timbang at Camp Crame after instructing the DILG regional director to submit reports on filling vacant posts amid ongoing suspensions, including those of Bamban Vice Mayor Leonardo Anunciacion and several Sangguniang Bayan members.

Timbang emphasized that despite challenges such as getting the trust of his colleagues, he will work on delayed projects and ensure services are uninterrupted for three months until replacements are appointed next week.

Residents of Bamban have expressed hope in Timbang's leadership during this transitional period.