Gilbert Cagas Berceles

As Punong Barangay of Barangay Buhing Calipay, Gilbert Cagas Berceles presides over the Sangguniang Barangay of the barangay in San Isidro, Surigao Del Norte, 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 Buhing Calipay is one of 12 barangays in the municipality of San Isidro, in the province of Surigao Del Norte, in the Caraga region of the Philippines. According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, Barangay Buhing Calipay had a population of 456 residents — the constituency that Gilbert serves as Punong Barangay. Surigao Del Norte is classified as a 2nd 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 Cagas Berceles 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.