Mabilog hires legal counsel
Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has hired a lawyer to act as his personal adviser on legal matters.
Mabilog clarified though that the functions of his legal counsel, Atty. Joenar Pueblo, will not be in conflict with that of the City Legal Department headed by Atty. Jose Junio Jacela.
He said his legal counsel will act as his consultant and protect him legally as mayor while the legal department will take care of the welfare of the city, including on bids and awards and review of contracts.
“I want everything to be legal to avoid cases,” he said.
On Monday, Mabilog swore in the city executives who will work under his administration.
“They are servants of the City Hall who will attend to the needs of every employee and the public,” Mabilog said of his appointees. “Outstanding (delivery) of public service, if possible.”
Those sworn in were City Administrator Ret. Col. Norlito Bautista and City Legal Officer Jose Junio Jacela, along with Executive Assistants to the Mayor Eduardo Peñaredondo, Jess Sio and Allan Sy, and Brgy. Capt. Fernando Jose Rico, village chief of Block 22, Mandurriao, who was named executive assistant for barangay affairs.
Retained in their positions were Ma. Mathilde Octavio, executive assistant for education; Francis Rodolfo Cruz, for economic affairs; and Romeo Paloma III, for infrastructure.
The mayor’s team also includes executive assistants Elpidio Lozada Jr. and Joren Sartorio; former Vice Mayor Guillermo dela Llana as private secretary; and Hector Alejano as secretary to the mayor.
Mabilog’s chief of staff is Norman Tabud while chief security officer is Ret. Col. Felix Muchada.
