City administrator still on leave

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Administrator Albert Tan continues to be on leave and stepped aside as chairman of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) to allow a probe into complaints surrounding the city’s bidding process, City Hall confirmed yesterday.

Mayor Nestor Archival’s Chief of Staff and spokesman Kenneth Siasar told reporters in a press briefing yesterday that Tan voluntarily submitted a letter to Archival, setting aside his functions “to pave the way for a thorough investigation and to clear his name, as well as the name of this administration.”

Siasar stressed that Tan’s move was not a resignation with his return dependent on the outcome of the inquiry.

“On leave ra g’yud siya,” Siasar said, adding that due process must be observed before any verdict is made.

Archival designated City Legal Officer Atty. Briccio Joseph Boholst as acting city administrator in concurrent capacity.

Siasar explained that Boholst was chosen for his familiarity with legal processes and his prior experience serving as Mandaue City administrator.

“That’s the prerogative of the mayor,” Siasar said, noting that Boholst’s dual role stresses the administration’s effort to maintain continuity while the investigation is ongoing.

The controversy stems from concerns raised by suppliers and echoed on social media about the system being implemented by the BAC.

Archival, described by Siasar as “sensitive to public concern,” ordered the probe after receiving formal complaints.

The mayor’s office has not set a timeline for the investigation, and Tan’s possible reinstatement remains uncertain.

Mounting criticism of Tan’s tenure had been made earlier, particularly over delays in the release of salaries for job order and project?based workers while some also concerning the bidding process.

Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña had publicly branded him “banga” (inept) during a session, while Archival defended Tan, saying he was “working and producing results.”

The latest development marks the second time Tan’s leadership has come under scrutiny, this time over procurement issues that strike at the heart of City Hall’s credibility.

For now, Boholst’s designation consolidates legal and administrative authority in one office, a temporary arrangement that will last until the investigation concludes.

Whether Tan returns or the acting setup continues will depend entirely on Archival’s prerogative once the probe is complete. — (FREEMAN)