Newly elected Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva opened his first flag-raising ceremony on Monday, July 7, with a stern warning: any city employee found using illegal drugs will face immediate action.
“Names have already reached my office,” the mayor declared at the City Government Center, emphasizing that public trust hinges on a drug-free, professional workforce.
He urged those involved to stop immediately, reminding everyone, “Our service to Sagaynons must be clean in both performance and character.”
During the same gathering, Cueva introduced Rodnel Delos Reyes, a former City Councilor, as the new City Administrator.
Outgoing administrator Ryan Bonghanoy will now lead the city’s Economic Enterprise Management Office, a move Cueva described as crucial for boosting local revenue and services.
Addressing Vice Mayor Narciso Javelosa Jr., department heads, and employees, Cueva expressed gratitude for the strong turnout.
He pledged open and personal engagement with every employee, stating, “Good governance is everyone’s job, not just the officials’.”
Cueva also shared feedback from a recent youth-leadership camp, where participants praised Sagay’s peace, cleanliness, and progress but noted lapses in frontline courtesy.
“Even a few negative encounters can overshadow our achievements,” the mayor warned, urging employees to “do your job, do it well, and do it with a smile.”
Tourism Chief Helen Cutillar highlighted the city’s recent accolades, including:
• 3rd Place, Most Outstanding Local Civil Registrar’s Office (Region VI)
• ASEAN Tourism Award (Johor, Malaysia)
• Hall of Fame, Most Outstanding Population Office (three consecutive years)
• Multiple Panaad sa Negros honors for arts, music, and solid-waste management.
Executive Assistant IV Angel Verdeflor introduced the Sagay softball delegation, which will compete in McAllen, Texas, from July 16–20. Sagay will field two squads (U-16 and U-17) under Councilor Benson Fernandez, aiming to defend last year’s championship.
Cueva also invited everyone to support the 51st Nutrition Month activities, themed “Food and Nutrition Security—Maging Priority, Sapat na Pagkain Karapatan Natin,” which will commence with fruit-tree and vegetable planting at the City Agriculture Demo Farm.*