Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. The barrios of Babatnon, Lanot, Lalawigan, Pinagdamhan, Hamoraon, Culasi, Tarum, Pambuhan, Ma-salong-salong, Hinipaan, Matoogtoog, Cayucyucan, Mam-boñgalon, Manguisoc, Gaboc, Cariñgo Is., Quinapaquian Is., Apwao Is., Mercedes, Tanayagan, Tagontong and Catandonganon, are separated from the municipality of Daet, Province of Camarines Norte, and constituted into a new and separate municipality to be known as the municipality of Mercedes, Province of Camarines Norte.

SEC. 2. The municipal mayor, vice mayor and councilors of the new municipality shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines to hold office until their successors are elected and qualified.

SEC. 3. The municipality herein established shall begin to exist on the date fixed in a proclamation to said effect by the President of the Philippines and upon the appointment and qualification of its officers.

SEC. 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved, July 26, 1948.