Mr Manoch took office on Dec 24, 2021, and since then Cherng Talay has undergone rapid transformation, emerging as one of Phuket’s busiest tourism and real-estate hubs.
During his tenure, Mr Manoch oversaw major land recovery efforts, infrastructure upgrades, public safety improvements and environmental protection initiatives.
His office has also been responsible for the explosion of construction throughout the Bang Tao area.
One of the most high-profile issues was the long-running dispute over 178 rai of prime beachfront land at Layan–Leypang, valued at about B50 billion.
Despite the Supreme Court handing down its ruling in 2017 finally re-confirming that the area was state land, local occupants to sites on the land ‒ namely popular restaurants serving tourists - still refused to vacate the area.
The debacle and flat inability of the local administration to evict the illegal encroachers led to Traiyarit Temhiwong, Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) at the time, coming to Phuket in person in 2022 to handle the situation himself.
The DSI launched an investigation into local and provincial officials, which finally culminated into the multi-billion-baht beachfront site being reclaimed by the state.
Environmental protection has remained a core issue. Cherng Talay experienced one of the largest construction surges in its history during his term, driven by strong demand for luxury villas, condominiums, resorts and mixed-use developments. Dozens of large-scale projects have reshaped Bang Tao, Pasak, Boat Avenue, Soi Cherng Talay 14, Soi Pasak 8, Lagoon Road and Layan, placing heavy pressure on roads, utilities and public services.
With more than 10 condo, villa and hotel projects underway and repeated complaints from residents, Mr Manoch has called for stronger support from higher authorities to manage congestion, taxi issues and roadside construction impacts.
Even the diabolical traffic jams in the area have been blamed on higher authorities, with Mr Manich saying he is powerless to much about any of the key issues affecting residents in his area.
Regardless, Mr Manoch stands by his efforts to develop, and improve, his area. “My team has focused on strengthening core infrastructure, improving water systems, expanding emergency services, and supporting elderly, disabled and vulnerable groups.
“Education, cultural activities, waste management, low-carbon initiatives, community tourism and small-business development were also part of my policy,” Mr Manoch told reporters when he registered to contest re-election yesterday (Dec 1).
He emphasised his commitment to transparent administration, digital public services and stronger engagement with village leaders and community committees.
Mr Manoch said his decision to run again reflects his intention to complete “unfinished projects” and continue “improving the quality of life” for Cherng Talay and Bang Tao residents.
Mr Manoch is running for re-election in the upcoming ‘OrBorTor elections’ to be held nationwide on Sunday, Jan 11.
He is representing the ‘Pun Team (‘Sharing Party’)’, and has been gifted No. 1 on the ballot.
The nationwide elections of OrBorTor officials will invoke a ban on the sale of alcohol in all areas across the country where elections are being held. The ban will be from 6pm Saturday, Jan 10, through to 6pm Sunday, Jan 11.