• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Deputy Speaker Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has publicly apologized to Bacolodnons and Councilor Homer Bais over his actions during an incident on Oct. 16, acknowledging that leaders must learn to control their emotions and remain humble.
In a video statement posted on Oct. 21, Benitez, the representative of Bacolod City Lone District, said he initially wanted to discuss the matter privately with Bais but decided to issue a public apology, recognizing his responsibility as a public official.
“As a leader, we should show that we can control our emotions and remain humble,” Benitez said, admitting that like everyone else, leaders sometimes struggle to control their emotions.
During the incident on Friday night, both officials took turns in slamming the table as they argued on the city government’s debts that funded various projects, during a MassKara Festival dinner at the Bacolod City Government Center.
Benitez stressed that he did not want to justify his actions that night, but clarified that he had no intention of belittling Bais or causing him embarrassment when he approached the city councilor.
“I did not intend for my approach to you to cause you embarrassment. That was not my intention,” he said.
Despite his explanation, Benitez extended his apology to the people of Bacolod and directly to Bais, expressing hope that they could move past the incident and focus on serving the public.
He called for clear, transparent and open updates on government projects and programs to ensure that Bacolod residents remain informed about initiatives intended for their benefit.
Benitez ended his statement by thanking the public, emphasizing his desire to put the controversy behind them and redirect attention toward government programs and public service. | GPB
