Capiz dads at odds over move to probe Bermejo's projects
ROXAS CITY – Board Member Alfonso Bediones in last week's session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan struck down the move of other members of the provincial board to investigate the alleged anomalous projects of former governor, now city mayor, Vicente Bermejo.
Bediones, in a privilege speech, said the rift between Bermejo and First District Congressman Antonio Del Rosario, who both belong to the Liberal Party, should be settled within the party.
"It is my conviction that this matter is purely our party's internal problem, which is ought to be resolved within its four corners," he said.
Bediones added that to avoid biases from members of the august body, he believes that proper government agencies that are mandated by law will check independently on the controversy.
Previously, Board Member Rommel Lastimoso moved that all legacy projects of Bermejo be investigated and it was referred to the Committee on Infrastructure chaired by Board Member Raymond Locsin.
During the session, Lastimoso insisted that as elected public officials who have the people's mandate, there should be an inquiry and verification of Bermejo's legacy projects worth P44 million.
"I don't have any personal motive on the proposed investigation but I want to know the truth of the matter. Whatever findings we have will be referred to other government agencies such as the Commission on Audit or the Ombudsman," Lastimoso said.
Board Members Ricky Martin and Vincent Fritz Cruz-am have expressed the same opinion with Lastimoso.
Bediones is the first cousin of Bermejo while Lastimoso is the husband of Del Rosario's niece.
The clash between the members of the august body was pacified when Board Member Gilbert Ardivilla moved to adjourn the session.
In the city council session, there was also a move that alleged anomalies committed by Del Rosario will be investigated. The city council will invite City Treasurer Joselito Almodiente, City Accountant Teresita Bediones and CSWDO Cynthia Besana to shed light on the alleged anomalies.
Earlier, Bermejo had issued a memorandum to Almodiente, Bediones and Besana to explain in writing regarding the issue. It was learned that they have already submitted their explanation letters to the city mayor's office.
To recall, Del Rosario accused Bermejo of having P3.3 million "ghost" project. Del Rosario was also accused of having "ghost employees" and financial assistance anomalies.