BACOLOD CITY - Outgoing Rep. Greg Gasataya took his oath before Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla as the new mayor of this highly-urbanized city on Saturday, June 28.

Gasataya, who is the 44th mayor of this city, said that his administration will be anchored on  H-E-A-R-T.

“A commitment to serve with immediate, actionable solutions founded on empathy, integrity, compassion, and health,” he said.

Gasataya accepted the symbolic key of the city government from outgoing Mayor Albee Benitez in the presence of Remulla during the oathtaking ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds.

Gasataya ended his three term as congressman of the lone district of this city, switching posts with Benitez, who also accepted the seal of Congress during the ceremony.

“As I take on this great responsibility entrusted to me by the people, I would like to take a pause to honor the man whose leadership laid down the foundations for change that generations will benefit from,” Gasataya said.

As I stand at the threshold of this new chapter, I do so not just to begin something entirely new, but to continue the good that has already taken root, he added.

Gasataya thanked Benitez and said that leadership may change hands, but he knows that their shared vision and dream for this city remains unchanged. 

“I now take this torch as you take mine with humility, with resolve and with great hope for what we can achieve together - because as time has witnessed - we are stronger together,” he said.

Gasataya, in his inaugural speech, said that they will begin his journey with a clear purpose, firm resolve, and a heartful of hope. 

Gasataya reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, public health, education, infrastructure, and youth development.

He emphasized the continuation of a strict policy against ghost employees, ensuring all city personnel are properly accounted for. 

He also pledged to uphold the Bacolod Comprehensive Health Program (BacCHP), a core initiative of Asenso Bacolod under Benitez.

A major focus will be the completion of the Bacolod City General Hospital — a legacy project from Gasataya’s time in Congress. 

“It was one of our priority health programs during my term. Through this, we will soon be equipped with modern, comfortable, and uncongested healthcare facilities for Bacolodnons,” he said.

He said the city government and Department of Health (DOH) are finalizing the hospital’s implementing rules and regulations, aiming to provide affordable and accessible healthcare.

In education, Gasataya aims to transform Bacolod City College into a university. A recent agreement with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and several business process outsourcing (BPO) firms launched the Asenso Life Skills Academy, designed to enhance employability and global competitiveness among Bacolodnons.

On waste management, Gasataya addressed growing complaints about garbage collection and vowed to hold the city’s contractor, IPM, accountable. 

They should shape up or ship out,” he said.

Flood mitigation efforts will include connecting local drainage to the reclamation area’s diversion channel and dredging creeks in Barangay Mandalagan.

To strengthen disaster response, the city will implement a barangay clustering system and activate all 101 closed circuit television units for better public safety. 

Gasataya also seeks to integrate Bacolod into the national 911 emergency system and plans to build new police stations in Barangays Sum-ag and Banago via land applications with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

A youth development is a key priority, with plans to establish Bacolod’s first youth lounge and co-working space. 

The center will cater to the mental, emotional, and professional needs of young people, including students and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“In 100 days, we may not accomplish everything, but we can surely prove that we are serious about change—and even more serious about our people,” he said.

Benitez was sworn in as representative of this city before Barangay 18 Captain Madeline Diaz. 

“As I officially took my oath as Congressman of Bacolod, I also formally turned over the keys to Mayor-elect Greg Gasataya. This gesture represents not just transition, but trust, unity, and our shared commitment to the people of Bacolod,” Benitez said.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served as your Mayor. As I move forward to represent you in Congress, know that my dedication to Bacolod remains as strong as ever, he added.

Outgoing Councilor and Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, son of former Mayor Monico Puentevella, also took his oath before ABC president Lady Gles Gonzales-Pallen.

City councilors were inducted b Regional Trial Court Branch 49 Judge Juvy Dioso.