Gilbert Cardinez Manantan

As Punong Barangay of Barangay Bulala, Gilbert Cardinez Manantan presides over the Sangguniang Barangay of the barangay in Bacnotan, La Union, serving the 2023 - 2026 term. The Punong Barangay is a nationally recognised local government position under the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act No. 7160).

The Punong Barangay is the chief executive of the barangay, the smallest and most local unit of government in the Philippines. Duties under Section 389 of RA 7160 include enforcing barangay ordinances, organising and leading an emergency response team, calling and presiding over sessions of the Sangguniang Barangay, maintaining public order through the Lupong Tagapamayapa (peace council), and supervising the delivery of basic services to residents.

Barangay Bulala is one of 47 barangays in the municipality of Bacnotan, in the province of La Union, in the Ilocos Region region of the Philippines. According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, Barangay Bulala had a population of 1,317 residents — the constituency that Gilbert serves as Punong Barangay. La Union is classified as a 1st by the Bureau of Local Government Finance.

Barangay officials in the Philippines are elected during the synchronised Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Gilbert currently holds office under the mandate established by the October 30, 2023 BSKE. The next BSKE, at which this position will again be contested, is scheduled for Monday, November 2, 2026.

The Sangguniang Barangay — which Gilbert Cardinez Manantan leads — is the legislative body of a Philippine barangay. It passes barangay ordinances and resolutions, approves the annual barangay budget, and exercises oversight over the barangay's programmes and projects. Its composition includes the Punong Barangay, seven kagawads, the SK Chairperson, a Secretary, and a Treasurer, all accountable directly to residents.