27/05/2026
FEATURED HEROES: HON. MA. GINA SUMANDO MENIL - MAYOR, MUNICIPALITY OF SAN BENITO, SURIGAO DEL NORTE
A VISIONARY LEADER’S IMPACT ON SAN BENITO
Over the past six years, the Municipality of San Benito, under the dedicated and visionary leadership of Mayor Ma. Gina Sumando-Menil, has undergone remarkable transformation. Through a combination of strategic planning, strong governance, and genuine concern for the welfare of her
constituents, Mayor Menil has guided the municipality toward progress, stability, and sustainable development. This narrative
report highlights the key accomplishments and projects implemented during her administration, illustrating how these
efforts have positively impacted the lives of San Benitohanons and strengthened the foundations of local governance.
PEACE AND ORDER: STRENGTHENING THE
FOUNDATION OF LEADERSHIP
Maintaining peace and order has been a cornerstone of Mayor Menil’s leadership.
Recognizing that a secure and orderly environment is essential for social and economic progress, her administration
implemented proactive measures to strengthen public safety. One of the most notable strategies has been the introduction
of Community-Based Policing, wherein trained police officers were deployed to various barangays to ensure a visible and
approachable law enforcement presence. This grassroots-level engagement has built trust between the community and the
police, resulting in improved reporting of incidents and better collaboration in addressing local concerns. Furthermore, the establishment of a functional Municipal
Peace and Order Council (MPOC) has provided a structured platform for dialogue, policy-making, and coordinated action
to address crime prevention, disaster response, and conflict resolution. These initiatives have collectively contributed to a
noticeable decline in crime rates, reinforcing the perception of San Benito as a safe and peaceful community.
