Noval says he did not snub Oaminal's letter

CEBU, Philippines - Department of Interior and Local Government 7 Director Pedro Noval yesterday disproved the claim of Dangerous Drug Board Undersecretary Clarence Paul Oaminal that he failed to act on the case of Antipolo, Medellin barangay captain Marianito Yaon who was caught twice in possession of illegal drugs.

Yesterday, Noval showed the media copies of the proof of delivery/pickup and delivery receipt from the courier through which he sent his reply to Oaminal’s November 27 letter, which inquired of the steps he would undertake as regards Yaon’s case.

Noval said he sent his response through Selecta Freight Forwarder and Delivery Services based in barangay Mabolo. It reportedly reached the DDB office in Quezon City and was received by a certain Angelo Padua.

“It is unfortunate that you did not receive the same basing on your claim appearing in the different media in Cebu,” Noval said.

Recently, Oaminal threatened to file charges against Noval for the latter’s alleged failure to respond to his inquiry.

Noval explained that based on the Local Government Code of 1991, the Council of the municipality where the barangay belongs has the authority to take action against the subject elected official.

“The decision of the Sangguniang Bayan may be appealed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan whose decision also may be appealed to the President,” Noval said, adding that the mandate of the DILG under the law is to assist the President in the exercise of his/her supervisory authority over LGUs.

“It has no inherent power to impose disciplinary action against among elected local officials unless and until the President delegates her power to impose such discipline action,” Noval added.

Yaon was first arrested in Consolacion last October, after he was caught allegedly using shabu inside his vehicle. He evaded detention after posting bail, but was again arrested last November 11 for allegedly using drugs and for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Two weeks ago, Medellin police conducted a raid against Yaon during which they seized shabu, a .357 revolver, and hand grenade from his possession. He, however, escaped. – Niña G. Sumacot/JMO    (FREEMAN NEWS)