Familiaran, Four Councilors Honored in Final Session

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and four councilors were honored Wednesday by the Bacolod City Council for their years of dedicated public service during its 156th regular session.

Familiaran, who served three consecutive terms as vice mayor since 2016, officially passed the gavel to Councilor and Vice Mayor-elect Claudio Jesus “Kalaw” Puentevella in a symbolic handover of authority.

“It has been an honor,” Familiaran said in his farewell message.

“After nine fruitful years as your vice mayor and presiding officer, I leave with pride and peace of mind, knowing we worked with purpose.”

He thanked his colleagues for their trust, support and camaraderie, saying the Council had become more than a legislative body.

“At some point, we became a family,” he added.

Though they held differing opinions and engaged in spirited debates, Familiaran said they always united in pursuit of the greater good.

“My heart is full. I can proudly say that I am happy with what we have achieved to make Bacolod City what it is,” he said.

Familiaran urged Puentevella to lead with conviction, learn from the past and do what is right for Bacolod.

He lost to outgoing Congressman Greg Gasataya in the mayoralty race during the May 12 midterm elections.

Councilor Em Ang passed a resolution recognizing Familiaran’s 21 years in public service, from barangay official to three-term vice mayor.

“His leadership, guidance and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in shaping policies that fostered growth, development and unity,” the resolution stated.

The Council expressed gratitude for his contributions, calling his departure the end of an era in city leadership.

Ang also authored resolutions honoring outgoing Councilors Cindy Rojas and Renecito Novero, who both served three full terms since 2016 and led key committees.

Similar resolutions were passed for Councilor Simplicia Distrito, who served from 2019 to 2025, and Councilor Vladimir Gonzales, who served from 2022 to 2025.

All were commended for their leadership, dedication and lasting impact on Bacolod’s development.

The resolutions were approved last week, and plaques were presented to the five officials during Wednesday’s session.

As the Council transitions to new leadership, it bids farewell to a team whose collective service helped shape the city for nearly a decade.