CAPITOL employees were caught off guard on Monday by the sudden resignation of Provincial Administrator Ely Patague and Provincial Accountant Marlon Operaña, both effective September 1, 2025.

While no one openly discussed the matter, whispers of possible reasons circulated.

For many, the resignation of Patague was particularly shocking. Once described as Pangasinan’s “little governor” due to his influence and closeness to Governor Ramon Guico III, Patague was widely regarded as one of the most powerful figures in the provincial government.

But things took a surprising turn when Patague himself confirmed to reporters that he had stepped down, though he declined to explain his decision or give further comments.

Operaña’s resignation at the same time added to the intrigue.

Sources revealed that on the evening of August 30, Patague and Operaña attended a meeting with the governor and a few others—one that Patague reportedly did not expect would be his last.

Patague reportedly packed up his things on Sunday, August 31.

Some even speculated whether Patague and Operaña had resigned voluntarily or were asked to step down.

This latest development follows a series of unexpected resignations in the Capitol.

In January, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Anna Ma. Teresa de Guzman—well-respected for her long years of service—also vacated her post despite being years away from retirement. Then in July, Provincial Information and Media Relations Officer Dhobie de Guzman, formerly of ABS-CBN, similarly surprised colleagues with his abrupt resignation. (Eva Visperas)

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