Dismissal order still to be served against Moreno

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Interior and Local Government will still serve the dismissal order against Aloguinsan Mayor Augustus Caesar Moreno despite his resignation.

DILG Provincial Director Jerome Gonzales said the mayor’s resignation will not stop them from implementing the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman dismissing him from the government service.

“Although he resigned, we will still serve the dismissal order, which is still in effect,” Gonzales said. Gonzales, however, said he has yet to receive a copy of the order.

Citing personal problems, Moreno tendered his resignation effective February 15. In his letter to Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III dated February 10, Moreno said he came to the decision so as not to hamper the services of the municipal government.

“This is a very difficult decision that I have to make, considering the trust and loyalty that the people of Aloguinsan have given me and our family through the years. However, I felt the need to step down because the people deserve more and I honestly am not in a good condition to serve them as of this time,” he said.

Davide received the letter on Valentine’s Day and immediately approved it.

“With deep regret, I accept your resignation. You have dedicated a great part of your life to provide service to the people of Aloguinsan and for that they will certainly miss you. I have no doubt you will overcome the personal challenges you are currently facing,” Davide’s letter reads. The letter was received yesterday by the mayor’s son, Raphael Moreno.

Davide thanked Moreno for his service to his town and his support and cooperation to the provincial government during his incumbency.

In January, Moreno and his wife, former vice mayor Cynthia Moreno, and five other municipal officials were ordered dismissed by the Ombudsman over alleged irregularity in the purchase of food supplies worth P287,725 in 2010.  Moreno allegedly authorized the purchase of food on several occasions from a bakeshop owned by his wife.

The Ombudsman found them guilty of grave misconduct and recommended before the Sandiganbayan the filing of criminal cases for alleged violation of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act). (FREEMAN)