Ilocos Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan voids Solsona’s 2016 budget

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) here declared on February 29 the 2016 budget of the Solsona town government as invalid in view of its top three local officials who continue to perform their duties and functions amidst a six-month suspension order signed by Ilocos Norte Governor Maria Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos.

Upon recommendation of the provincial board, Ms. Marcos suspended Solsona Mayor Jonathan de Lara, Solsona Vice Mayor Joseph de Lara and Solsona senior Sangguniang Bayan member Edison de Lara since December 10 for grave abuse of authority but they all refused to step down from their respective positions.

The de Laras are banking on an alleged ‘stay order’ the Office of the President issued on the same day the suspension order was served but until now, the SP have yet to receive an official copy of the said document, if any.

“It’s very unfortunate that the people of Solsona have to suffer because of this situation. Basic services are being hampered because we are on stalemate,” acting Solsona Mayor Jose Martin told the SP board members who appeared to be “helpless” in resolving the issue of having two mayors in Solsona town.

During the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Mr. Martin along with four other SB members and eight Punong Barangays sought the advice of the body regarding the continuing assumption of said local officials despite their on-going suspension which stemmed from an administrative charge filed against them by SB members Martin, Alexander Calucag, Mark Dennis Del Castillo, and Lorenzo Pascua.

“We are at a loss. What can we do now to correct this situation in Solsona? The suspension order was served but they continue to perform their functions and duties, despite suspension,” Mr. Martin reiterated.

While submitted for review at the provincial board, the SP has invalidated the 2016 budget of Solsona and that a copy of the committee report be furnished to all concerned authorities including the mayor, vice mayor, municipal treasurer, budget officer and the depository bank of Solsona.

“It appears there’s vacuum in the local government unit of Solsona. I believe that the controversy is now ripe for judicial intervention,” said SP member Vicentito “Toto” M. Lazo.

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