Question & AnswerQ&A (BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 239)
The purpose of Batas Pambansa Blg. 239 is to create the Municipality of Hingyon in the Province of Ifugao by separating certain barangays from the municipalities of Lagawe and Banaue.
The barangays separated from the Municipality of Lagawe are Anao, Bangtinon, Bitu, Hingyon, Mompolia, Namulditan, Piwong, and Umalbong.
The barangays of O-ong, Cababuyan, and Ubuag from the Municipality of Banaue were included.
The seat of government of the Municipality of Hingyon is located in Barangay Hingyon.
A plebiscite must be conducted among the concerned barangays within 120 days from the date of the final approval of the Act, and a majority vote affirming the creation is required before appointing officials and formal creation.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is responsible for conducting and supervising the plebiscite.
The expenses for the plebiscite shall be borne by the local government concerned.
The territorial jurisdiction is defined by specific natural landmarks and boundaries such as Ulling Mountain, Nabatuan ridge, Anao River, Mount Atugo, Umalbong River, Mount Kahibag, Palo Mountain, Banaue River, and Annapawon Ridge as detailed in Section 2 of the Act.
This Act takes effect upon its approval.
They shall be appointed after a majority of votes in the plebiscite affirming the creation of the Municipality of Hingyon.