Leyson hangs on to post despite eligibility issue

Despite not being recognized by the Civil Service Commission for his lack of eligibility and failure to secure renewal of his temporary appointment, Land Transportation Office regional director Alex Leyson insisted that he is authorized to perform the official function of the office he occupies.

Leyson said even if the CSC refused to recognize his authority, the LTO central office in Manila continues to recognize him. He contended that he does not need to obtain a new appointment because he is a presidential appointee.

He said assistant Secretary Reynaldo Berroya has not told him that he does not anymore need to secure a renewal of his appointment from President Arroyo for as long as he continues to enjoy the trust and confidence of the President.

Nevertheless, Leyson said that he already requested the Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications to have his appointment renewed to avoid further controversy even if he insisted that it is not necessary.  

CSC regional director David Cabanag earlier made a pronouncement that they do not recognize Leyson as the duly appointed LTO regional director because of his lack of eligibility.

Cabanag made the pronouncement after Leyson was charged with graft and corruption before the Ombudsman by a self-styled anti-graft group called Kawsa Kontra Kahiwian.

The group accused Leyson of “illegally discharging the functions of a regional director even if his appointment has expired three years ago.”

Record shows that Leyson’s appointment expired on March 7, 2004 but until now he continues to stay in office. Executive Order 292 clearly states that temporary appointment like that of Leyson shall not exceed 12 months.  — Fred P. Languido/MEEV