SBM convenor: ‘Bing has nothing to do with us’
BACOLOD CITY — Save Bacolod Movement (SBM) convenor Mr. Romy Niere said that SBM is an independent movement which seeks truth, justice and peace in the City of Bacolod.
He said there is no truth that SBM is pro-Mayor Evelio Leonardia. This movement is a multi-sectoral organization composed of independent minded individuals who have serious concern for the welfare of our beloved city, he said.
The objective of this movement is to tell the truth about the corrupt practices of government leaders.
“We are here to monitor the malpractices of government officials especially in the mis-use of public funds,” Niere said.
Leonardia has nothing to do with SBM, he clarified.
SBM has cited Bacolod City Lone District Rep. Monico Puentevella who has a Plunder case filed by Philippine Sports Commissioner Angping relative to the unliquidated P50.5 million PSC funds intended for the 23rd Southeast Asian Games.
Niere said that they are monitoring this case because this is one good example that public funds have been mis-used by a government leader.
SBM also questioned the act of Cong. Puentevella in depositing the P50.5 million to his personal account despite the fact that it was named after the BASOC.
Niere said that the Congressman should be made accountable for this questionable act because any ordinary individual could not do it, much more a public official who is supposed to lead his people by example.
He said that they will continue to advocate for a corrupt-free government because the people’s money should be protected at all cost.
Nobody can just spend public funds beyond its purpose. “Our government leaders are expected to do what is right and appropriate because they are voted and placed in power to lead their people and be the voice of the people.”
Niere said that the Congressman should answer all the accusations against him. He should seek vindication on the huge amount of public funds which turned questionable because of the fact that the check was deposited to a personal account of the Congressman.
Earlier, Atty. Renecito Novero defended Congressman Puentevella saying that if it was not done by the Congressman, who will be blamed if the SEA games failed? It was an international sports event that needs to be attended to by the Congressman, Novero stressed.