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By Jane Rose Fiel Abaday
Team OKKA .

NOW you will know why he has a commanding presence and persistence to serve the people.

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Former barangay captain, former city councilor, Dean Roger Gabatan Abaday is a man with an illustrious past — yet still longing to contribute to the community, society – a man who seems never outfought. And rightly so.

During the Martial Law days, Dean Roger Abaday was an elite soldier. He was a member of class 17 of the Scout Rangers (1973-77).

He however thought he could do more, with his intelligence, martial skills and combat experience as a man of peace and order. He decided to pursue a degree in Criminology, as a scholar. He made his mark as a criminologist, having been a former Dean of Criminology in several colleges. In fact, he can lay claim to the title of The Dean of Criminology Deans in Cagayan de Oro.

He had pursued post graduate studies. He graduated BS Criminology at the Cagayan de Oro College (non COC Phinma) in 1980. He earned his Masters in Criminology in 2003 at University of Cebu, Cebu City and in 1991 he successfully finished his studies in Bachelor Law at Xavier University, and on-going Doctoral Degree in Management in Education.

In 1982, he started his vocation in politics as an alderman or kagawad of Barangay Kauswagan. In 1989 he became barangay captain of the barangay, a post he held until 2007.

From his humble beginnings, he has transformed into a community leader, always yearning to serve the community better, deeper and broader.

His name was a great recall because of his strong participation in the movement against illegal drugs and crimes. He moved and developed Kauswagan as one of the more progressive barangays in the city. He had strengthened the community as an essential pillar of the criminal justice system and more importantly, made the populace feel safe and secure.

Turning the pages during his younger year, being a poor boy, he worked as a newspaper boy, show shine boy back then in Divisoria Plaza, ice drop, sweeptakes ticket vendor. He grew up to be an independent and responsible son, always yearning to reach his dreams.

In fact his love for serving the people continues in 2007, it was his first major break when he decided to run for City Councilor and landed fifth.

His solid performance landed him the first spot in the 2010 elections. He was certified third as Outstanding Three-termer City Councilor by Philippine Councilors League (PCL). On his last term in 2013, he championed the hearts of the Senior Citizens as he authored the Ordinance “Free (Libre Sine) for all Senior Citizens in CDO”.

He also introduced the measure increasing their benefits. Another significant legislation is Providing Lounge/Rest room and Stalls for Workers in all Business Establishments.

To this day, he remains humble and at the same time honored for the acknowledgment and appreciation he has earned from the people.

When graduated as a three-term councilor in June 27, 2016, he was awarded A Distinguished Plaque of Commendation as City Councilor from 2007-2016 for his highly commendable and exemplary devotion to public service and determined, resolute, persistent, genuine, sincere, honest and dedicated member of the 15th, 16th,17th City Council (SP) of CDO.

More than his wit and will power, he also have significant contributions and accomplishment, he has been the Minority Floor Leader in 2007-2013 15th and 16th City Council Assistant Minority Floor leader in 2013- to present 17th City Council, Chairman Committee on Public Utilities , Member in all Standing Committees, Member People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB), Chairman City Anti Drug Abuse Council (CADAC), Member Regulatory and Complaint Board (RCB).

He has always endeared himself to the masses. They can relate to his life’s struggles and see in him their shared aspirations.

For being a warrior, a dean, a public servant close friends call him Roger Ger. Not for anything, but as an affirmation of the man and his deeds.

Kang Abaday, Serbisyong Tiunay. Roger on that, Ger!

(The author is former councilor Roger Abaday’s daughter.)

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