Manila, Feb. 4 -- The municipality of Claver in Surigao del Norte moved closer to becoming a city after its cityhood bill was approved by the House of Representatives.

House Bill No. 8800, titled An Act Converting the Municipality of Claver in the Province of Surigao del Norte into a Component City to be Known as the City of Claver, received 195 affirmatives votes and no negative vote and abstention on Monday.

The bill was submitted by author Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers on Aug. 7, 2023.

In a statement Tuesday, the Claver local government unit (LGU) is optimistic about the bill's progress.

"We look forward to the transmittal of the approved House Bill to the Senate for concurrence," the LGU said.

If enacted ...