ABRA

New Abra governor takes oath with local officials
BY JACK TURQUEZA

BANGUED, Abra – Incoming provincial and municipal officials led by Governor-elect Eustaquio “Takit” P. Bersamin, younger brother of slain Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin Jr. took their oath as officials here yesterday.

It was literally a changing of the guards during the noon inauguration at the provincial capitol.

The new officials took their oath before Court of Appeals Associate Justice Lucas P. Bersamin, elder brother of the governor.

The elder Bersamin was guest of honor at the inauguration rites.

A prepared program marking the event was preceded by a thanksgiving mass, with Bersamin and party, guests, as well as provincial and national employees in the attendance at the Saint James the Elder Cathedral here.

Abra’s recently installed Catholic Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian, SVD, presided over the liturgical celebration this morning.

The elected governor distributed during the program 71 land titles to residents of the towns of Villaviciosa, Manabo, Penarrubia, Bucay, San Juan, Lagangilang and Tayun.

Campaigning with the slogan, “Bangon, Abra,” Bersamin said his administration’s plans, programs and high-impact projects are expected to alleviate the living condition of his constituents.

The governor, a political neophyte, was reportedly mulling to give high priority to the speedy restoration of peace and order here, a gargantuan task.

Lawmen had tagged this province the “killing capital” of the Cordillera.

The newly elected governor is also giving importance to enhanced agricultural production.

He plans to give emphasis on the motion and preservation of two diverse cultures – Ilocano and Tingguian, to boost infrastructure development, and endeavor to bring back the trust and confidence of the people in their elected leaders.

“I am here to serve you, and not you serving,” Bersamin said.