During my interview, the very first question thrown at me was, “Willing ka ba makigulo sa Barangay?” I was taken aback, thinking—oh my, is it really that chaotic? Is he serious? Is this a joke or an initial test? Well, after almost three years in my role working under the leadership of Punong Barangay Melencio B. Likot Jr., I can say that the question—and my initial thoughts—were all valid! Haha!
Working at the Sangguniang Barangay of Sampaloc 1 has been both challenging and rewarding. The role itself was a challenge because I initially felt unqualified, considering my professional background and experience. But what truly struck me was when my superior said, “I am not after the qualifications; I need someone whom I can trust.” That statement alone set the tone for what was to come—a truly unique and fulfilling journey.
The experience has been rewarding, not only because of the work I do but because of the leader I serve. Never have I encountered a Chief Executive who would willingly work on my behalf, drive for me, run errands for me, and support me in ways beyond my expectations. He is patient, understanding, considerate, and simply awesome!
Over the years, I have gotten to know him more. He is professional, unbiased, knowledgeable, humble, accommodating, and strict when necessary. He has a great sense of humor, is incredibly friendly, and is undeniably a workaholic. But most importantly, he is a true public servant—one who upholds integrity and genuinely cares for his people.
One of the things I admire most about him is his composure. When the election period came, there was an influx of complaints and black propaganda against his leadership. Despite the negativity, he never engaged in online conflicts or retaliated against false accusations. His ability to rise above it all and remain focused on his duties is truly admirable. My daughter was right when she told me, “Mommy, haters gonna hate!”
Despite the challenges, I remain steadfast in my role because of him. I want to support him, help him, learn from him, and continue embracing the spirit of volunteerism. There will always be critics, and not everyone will appreciate his leadership. No one can please everybody. However, I have personally witnessed his dedication and efforts. He may not be able to attend to all the needs of his constituents, but he is constantly doing his best.
Since 2018, he has been leading Barangay Sampaloc 1—not just as a Punong Barangay but as someone who can take on the duties of a tanod, clerk, driver, secretary, bookkeeper, treasurer, kagawad, utility worker, street sweeper, maintenance personnel, cook, justice officer, and committee chairman!
I truly wish that all his staff could deeply see and understand what it takes to be a public servant. He is an embodiment of dedication, resilience, and selflessness.
He is Melencio B. Likot Jr. —How to be you po, Kapt?
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Sana all may ganitong punong Barangay na maaasahan at ginagawa talaga ang kanyang tungkulin! Saludo ako sayo Kap.
Ganyan yung maganda sa isang Punong Barangay may dedication and efforts talaga. Yung tipong makikita talaga na may pagbabago at pag-unlad sa community na kanyang sinasakupan at may good leadership din.
Really admirable ang kanyang dedication sa kanyang position even though lots of negativity ,ay never talaga siya Pumapatol at ika nga ,he did his best para sa kanyang community