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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