Cong. Bulut-Begtang calls for coordinated action on Calanasan boundary concern

Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang called for immediate and coordinated action to address the territorial boundary concern affecting Barangay Tanglagan in the Municipality of Calanasan during a consultative meeting held on June 29 at the Session Hall of the Paul A. Delwasen Legislative Building, Apayao Government Center.

The consultation tackled concerns arising from Republic Act No. 10955, which created the barangays of Kalaw, Cabaritan, and Quibel from the former Barangay Dumalneg in Ilocos Norte. Officials discussed the reported overlap involving portions of Barangay Tanglagan and its possible implications on the territorial jurisdiction of the Municipality of Calanasan.

During the meeting, Congresswoman Bulut-Begtang noted that both the Provincial Government of Apayao and the Municipality of Calanasan were not consulted during the legislative process of the law. She emphasized that measures involving territorial boundaries should take into account the participation of affected local government units.

She also encouraged concerned agencies and local officials to consolidate documentary evidence, historical records, tax declarations, official maps, and other supporting documents that may be needed in addressing the boundary issue through appropriate legal and institutional processes.

Possible legal and legislative remedies were likewise discussed, including options that may be pursued to clarify the territorial boundaries.

The consultation concluded with provincial officials, municipal representatives, and partner agencies expressing their support for efforts to protect the interests of the Municipality of Calanasan while pursuing a lawful and orderly resolution of the boundary concern.