The local government of Panglao will break ground for a new municipal hall on May 28, 2026, Mayor Edgardo Arcay announced, ending a prolonged and contentious effort to replace the current structure.
Arcay made the disclosure in an interview on the DYTR’s Newsmakers ug Uban Pa radio program, saying the local government acquired a two-hectare lot for P90 million to host the new building. The site is located about 500 meters from Cristal e-College.
Surigao Bishop Antonieto Cabajog will lead the groundbreaking rites. Arcay said the two have been friends since his days as a harbor pilot.
A former ship captain, Arcay once considered entering the priesthood before pursuing a career in seafaring.
The project has a complicated history. A lot had been procured before Arcay took office, but he moved to halt the original plan and secured an alternative site before proceeding with the current project.
Arcay also said he intends to write to the barangay council of Bolod to determine whether fees are being collected from motorists and pedestrians using what he described as a public barangay road.
The mayor said he received reports that a resort owner in the area had been charging passage fees, which he called illegal on a road dedicated to public use. He said the council had issued a resolution authorizing the fee collection, but that it was later superseded by another resolution allowing free passage.
Arcay said council members are facing charges before the Office of the Ombudsman.
The dispute over the road escalated in April. On April 9, Arcay and Provincial Legal Officer Handel Lagunay executed a writ of mandamus to demolish a gate and guardhouse along the barangay road, acting on Special Civil Action No. 10425 filed by French national Jacques Chaoulli to clear obstructions leading to the beach.
Following the demolition, the resort owner filed a complaint against Arcay, Lagunay, Gov. Aris Aumentado and Chaoulli.
The barangay council separately passed a resolution declaring Chaoulli persona non grata, citing alleged misconduct, arrogant behavior, disrespect to the community and its local government, and disregard for local customs and traditions.
Arcay questioned the resolution, saying Bolod residents have largely been supportive of Chaoulli and have benefited from his legal action to clear the road. He said the council may be favoring an opposing party in the dispute.
Third term
On his political future, Arcay said he has not decided whether to seek a third term in 2028, adding that he would await guidance from his spiritual adviser before making a decision.