Guindulman Mayor Albino “Ben” M. Balo stepped down from office Wednesday, paving the way for Vice Mayor Jimmy D. Busano to assume the municipality’s top post.
In an official statement released Thursday, Balo announced his resignation effective immediately, citing a decision by the Office of the Ombudsman.
“With all due respect sa desisyon sa Office of the Ombudsman, I am officially stepping down as your Municipal Mayor effective today,” Balo said in a statement posted on social media.
“Nasayod naman siguro ang tanan nga na trending na ta karon sa social media.”
The transition ceremony took place Wednesday at the Guindulman Municipal Plaza, where Busano was sworn in as municipal mayor.
Councilor Abigail Marie Lagura-Gutang assumed the position of vice mayor.
In his farewell message, Balo expressed confidence in the new leadership while acknowledging the controversy surrounding his departure.
“Naa pay pipila natu nga kauban sa buhat nga naapil sa maong issue, pero ayaw mo kabalaka — you will be in good hands under the leadership of our Vice Mayor Engr. Jimmy Busano,” Balo said.
Documents circulating on social media show the Office of the Ombudsman case dated May 26, 2025, involving Balo and several municipal officials related to alleged irregularities in a 2023 multi-purpose billboard cell construction project and a giant Christmas tree constructed in 2022.
“Kusog motuki ug motuis arong mahimo tang dautan,” Balo said, adding: “I love you all gihapon.”
Busano and Lagura-Gutang called for continued cooperation among residents as they assume their new roles.
“May we continue to work hand in hand for progress, unity, and the continued development of Guindulman,” the new administration said in a statement Thursday.