Panitan village chief appeals suspension
ROXAS CITY – Suspended village chief of Panitan, Capiz, through his lawyer, filed a motion with the Regional Trial Court (RTC) to prevent the Sanggunian Bayan (SB) from implementing the suspension against him.
Barangay Captain Dante Del Mendo of Brgy. Kios yesterday was aided by his lawyer in filing a motion for certiorari with injunction at the RTC in Roxas City.
This developed after majority of the SB members of the said town denied an appeal for reconsideration filed by Del Mendo.
SB members who voted in favor of striking out the notice of appeal were: Lelia Datiles, Roberto Albaña. Ricardo Araque, Abraham Belvis and SK President Charmaine Franciso.
SB members who opposed were: PCL President David Buason, Ernesto Bitoon, Saymor Diaz and Edgar "Boy" Caldeo.
Earlier, the Panitan SB issued a 90-day preventive suspension against Del Mendo for dishonesty and neglect of duty.
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Glenn Guzman said that Del Mendo could not cast his vote during the Liga election.
However, Poblacion Brgy. Captain Oliver Delfin questioned the authority of Liga caretaker Deocampo to preside the meeting. He also questioned the SB authority to suspend the erring barangay officials.
It was agreed during the meeting that the Liga chapter election will be held on October 6.
It was learned that first councilor Rolando Bersorio replaced Del Mendo as barangay head. Bersorio is Deocampo's supporter.
To recall, the election Liga ng mga Barangay in Panitan last year was declared a failure for lack of quorum.
Tincopon Barangay Captain Richard Dadivas with his 13 supporters were present during the election however, Deocampo's 13 supporters snubbed the election.