Sigma VM: 'Missing' SB member may seek 'greener pasture' abroad
SIGMA, Capiz – A Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member of this town who has been absent from the regular session for two consecutive weeks may opt to seek greener pasture abroad if he cannot cope with his responsibilities and duties.
This was voiced out by Sigma Vice Mayor Betty Quirao amid reports that SB Member Cleo Jude Joaquin has again gone missing from their sessions for two weeks.
Quirao however said that Joaquin filed a leave of absence as the latter went to Manila to follow up something.
Joaquin became controversial after he filed a leave of absence of almost six months where it was later found out that he left for Saudi Arabia.
He was able to get back in the regular session this month of November after he was called by the Quirao and Mayor Maria Andaya to fulfill his duty.
A source told The News Today that once Joaquin commits four consecutive absences, his colleagues and the vice mayor will already expel him as member of the SB.
Based on the SB internal rules, an SB member who commits four consecutive absences shall be expelled.
It was learned that former Liga President Cris Andaya, who committed more than 4 consecutive absences, was expelled by Former Vice Mayor Limuel de Pedro.
Andaya then fought out that the vice mayor and SB has no jurisdiction over the expulsion of its member.
Andaya, son of incumbent Sigma Mayor Maria Andaya, brought his case to the court prompting the local court to reaffirm the decision of the vice mayor and the council.
The former Liga president has filed an appeal with the Court of Appeals (CA) and is now pending for decision.