Historic first in Biliran and E. Samar
TACLOBAN CITY — In a rare political twist, two provinces in Eastern Visayas witnessed an unusual exchange of gubernatorial power on Monday, June 30—one from father to son, and the other from son to father.
In Eastern Samar, outgoing Governor Ben Evardone handed over the reins of the provincial government to his 25-year-old son, Ralph Vincent “RV” Evardone, making him the youngest governor ever elected in the province and in the entire region.
Meanwhile in Biliran, the transition took the opposite turn. Former governor Gerard Roger Espina stepped down after a single term and passed the post back to his father, Rogelio Espina, who had previously served as governor for nine years.
When Gerard Roger was elected in 2022 at age 36, he held the distinction of being the region’s youngest governor at the time.
While political dynasties are common in Eastern Visayas, this marked the first time the region saw power simultaneously exchanged between father and son in opposite directions in two separate provinces.
It remains unclear whether the outgoing Evardone and the younger Espina will hold any formal roles in their respective successors’ administrations. Both did not run for any position during the May 12 elections—Ben Evardone completing his third and final term, and Gerard Roger Espina opting out after just one term.
During their inaugural addresses, the newly sworn-in governors expressed admiration and gratitude toward their immediate predecessors.
Governor Rogelio Espina praised his son’s leadership.
“Your sincere and dedicated service to the people of Biliran and your legacy will not be forgotten. It will serve as a springboard to the new administration,” he said.
Gerard Roger previously served three terms as mayor of Naval, the provincial capital, before becoming governor.
In Eastern Samar, Governor RV Evardone thanked his father for his guidance and wisdom, pledging to continue public service centered on inclusive development.
“We will ensure that no one will be left behind,” he said, outlining his priorities which include boosting the local economy through strategic investments in education, health, agriculture, and tourism.
Before becoming governor, RV Evardone served as a municipal councilor in their hometown of Sulat, winning his first election in 2022.
JOEY A. GABIETA
