CEBU, Philippines - The camp of fourth district Rep. Benhur Salimbangon has accused their political opponents of removing and destroying the tarpaulins of the solon in two occasions in San Remigio town.
Daphnie Salimbangon, media liaison officer of the congressman, reported to San Remigio Police Station last Sunday morning after they noticed that the campaign paraphernalia of the congressman were removed.
According to her, the first incident happened on January 21 and it was repeated on February 06 at the Hagnaya wharf.
She said a certain Dario Misa and Jr. Tadula, known supporters of the Martinezes, were the ones who did them.
Each tarpaulin allegedly costs P15,000.
PO2 Carlito Pacinio of San Remigio Police Station said that they are now conducting an investigation on the complaint of Salimbangon’s camp.
In an interview, Cebu Provincial Police Office director Erson Digal said that Bogo City Mayor Celestino “Junie” Martinez reportedly admitted that the removal of the tarpaulins of Salimbangon has a “blessing” from him.
The mayor had allegedly personally talked to Digal on the phone admitting that his men were the ones who were responsible for the campaign posters that bear the face of Salimbangon.
Martinez claimed the tarpaulins are misleading the people of the fourth district because the Supreme Court has already declared his son, Celestino “Tining” Martinez III as the real winner in the congressional race in their district.
Salimbangon has already submitted his motion contesting the High Tribunal’s decision.
Due to the recent controversy, Digal has ordered the police officers in the province not to get themselves involved in any political group.
The police official said that the role of the policemen is to maintain peace and order and receive complaints and act on them if there is any.
“Ako gyud ni silang (policemen) giingnan nga ang pulis dili manangtang sa mga campaign paraphernalia kay dili mana among trabaho. Igo lang gyud mi nga magbantay sa security,” Digal added. — Gabriel C. Bonjoc/WAB (FREEMAN NEWS)