Ferdinand Superficial Encia

As Punong Barangay of Barangay Buto, Ferdinand Superficial Encia presides over the Sangguniang Barangay of the barangay in Tampakan, South Cotabato, 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 Buto is one of 14 barangays in the municipality of Tampakan, in the province of South Cotabato, in the SOCCSKSARGEN region of the Philippines. According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, Barangay Buto had a population of 1,962 residents — the constituency that Ferdinand serves as Punong Barangay. South Cotabato 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). Ferdinand 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 Ferdinand Superficial Encia 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.