India, Sept. 23 -- Vice Governor Isidro Pimentel Galban was formally sworn in as the new governor of Aurora on Tuesday morning, following the passing of Governor Reynante Tolentino on Monday.

The oath-taking took place during the provincial flag-raising ceremony at the Capitol Grounds, officiated by Municipal Circuit Trial Court Baler-San Luis Judge Edith Cynthia Wee-Cabbat.

The solemn occasion was marked by the lowering of the Philippine flag to half-mast as employees and officials of the provincial government gathered in mourning.

A mass was also celebrated to honor Tolentino's memory and offer prayers for the repose of his soul.

In his first address as governor, Galban admitted the weight of the moment, saying it was painful to spe...