| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | James "Payko" Bagano Pooten II |
| Born | January 8, 1963 |
| Died | July 26, 2024, Calgary, Alberta, Canada |
| Age at Death | 61 |
| Spouse | Cymbeline Joan Piluden Lumpias-Pooten (deceased) |
| Children | Manuel James III "Jigo," Jamie Ann "Lim-ay" |
| Occupation | Mayor of Sagada, Mountain Province |
| Terms Served | July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2019; July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2022 |
| Notable Contributions | Addressed traffic issues, supported local agriculture during COVID-19 |
James "Payko" Bagano Pooten II (January 8, 1963 - July 26, 2024) was a respected Filipino politician and community leader known for his service as mayor of Sagada, Mountain Province. "Payko" is his Igorot name, reflecting his cultural heritage. His leadership, which spanned from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2019, and again from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022, left a lasting impact on his community. Pooten's dedication to public service and compassionate leadership are fondly remembered by those who knew him.
Early Life and Education
James "Payko" Bagano Pooten II was born on January 8, 1963, in Sagada, Mountain Province. Raised in his hometown, he was actively involved in both his academic pursuits and local community activities. His experiences in Sagada profoundly influenced his approach to public service and governance.
Political Career
Pooten served as mayor of Sagada from July 1, 2016, to June 30, 2019, and from July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022. During his time in office, he focused on improving local infrastructure, managing the impact of increased tourism, and addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His administration is noted for its efforts to alleviate traffic congestion and support local agriculture, particularly during the economic difficulties of the pandemic.
Tourism and Traffic Management
Under Pooten's leadership, Sagada experienced a significant rise in tourism, reaching nearly 200,000 visitors in 2019. To address traffic congestion, he implemented Executive Order No. 37-18, which encouraged public transportation and established guidelines for parking. His efforts also included facilitating the development of additional private parking lots.
Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic created severe economic challenges for Sagada. Pooten's administration worked to support local farmers by partnering with various organizations to market Sagada's agricultural products in Manila, helping to mitigate some of the economic impacts on the community.
Personal Life and Legacy
James Pooten passed away on July 26, 2024, at around 10:30 a.m. (Alberta time) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, at the age of 61. He was involved in a car accident while traveling with his wife, Cymbeline Joan Piluden Lumpias-Pooten, and two other relatives, Arlene Guzman-Padalla and Jacob Guzman. Cymbeline, a retired nurse from St. Luke's Hospital in Quezon City, is survived by her brother, Paul Piluden Lumpias.
The couple is survived by their two children: Manuel James III "Jigo," who resides in Canada, and Jamie Ann "Lim-ay," a nurse in North Carolina. Pooten was the youngest of six siblings, survived by his brothers Atty. Richard Stone "Bagano" Pooten, Atty. Basil "Basilio" Pooten, and Fr. Patrick Mathew Pooten, as well as his sister Dra. Frances Jane "Abbay" Pooten-Kiat-ong. He was preceded in death by his brother Wellington "Dalapus" Pooten and his parents, James "Lasan" Pooten and Magdalena Bagano Pooten from Sagada and Besao, Mountain Province.
Reflecting on His Impact
James "Payko" Bagano Pooten II is remembered for his significant contributions to Sagada. His leadership during times of increased tourism and the COVID-19 pandemic exemplified his dedication to public service. Pooten's efforts to address local issues and support his community have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire those who knew him.
