Arnel Aldava Templanza

As Punong Barangay of Barangay Poblacion, Arnel Aldava Templanza presides over the Sangguniang Barangay of the barangay in Barobo, Surigao Del Sur, 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).

Under the Local Government Code of 1991, the Punong Barangay leads the Sangguniang Barangay, signs ordinances and resolutions, represents the barangay in transactions with other government units, administers the barangay budget and appropriations, and oversees the Lupong Tagapamayapa that handles amicable settlement of disputes at the barangay level. The office is the most directly accountable elected position in the Philippine government.

Barangay Poblacion is one of 21 barangays in the municipality of Barobo, in the province of Surigao Del Sur, in the Caraga region of the Philippines. According to the 2024 POPCEN (Census of Population) published by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Barangay Poblacion had a population of 14,624 residents — the constituency that Arnel serves as Punong Barangay. Surigao Del Sur 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). Arnel 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.

As an elected Philippine public official, Arnel Aldava Templanza is accountable to the residents of Barangay Poblacion and must comply with the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713), and other national laws. Barangay officials are required to file Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) and are subject to the oversight of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Office of the Ombudsman.