DAGUPAN CITY -- The Commission on Elections on Tuesday proclaimed Belen Fernandez and Bryan Kua as the respective elected mayor and vice mayor of Dagupan City.
The winning city councilors were also proclaimed, including Librada Fe Reyna, Jeslito Seen, Alvin Coquia, Celia Lim, Dr. Malou Fernandez, Alipio Serafin Fernandez, Red Erfe-Mejia, Dennis Canto, Irene Lim-Acosta and Michael Fernandez.
Belen Fernandez bagged 67,499 votes while incumbent Mayor Brian Lim received 53,042 votes.
The new elected mayor Fernandez issued a statement, thanking God for her victory.
“I think I can't thank God enough for this historic victory,” said Mayor Fernandez.
“I am overwhelmed with great joy because finally, we can bring back Dagupan, our city we love, to its former glory,” she posted on her Facebook page.
Meanwhile, incumbent mayor Lim congratulated the mayor-elect and the newly-elected officials of the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
“I wish them all the best during their term, as I similarly wish that they continue all the programs and projects we have started,” said outgoing mayor Lim.
“The service we have rendered the past years reflect how much we care for the Dagupeños, how we look after the welfare of those on the lowest spoke of fortune’s wheel, and how bright our outlook is for our City,” he said.
Lim also thanked the City Government employees, supporters and volunteers who have worked hard and sacrificed serving the Dagupeños.