JVR questioned over deal with businessman

CEBU, Philippines - The business deal struck between a businessman and Talisay City Mayor Johnny Delos Reyes which involved payment of P14,000 for the accommodation by city hall for 7,000 sacks of pebbles had no authority from the city council, Association of Barangay Council president and City Councilor Raul Cabañero said in his privilege speech during the Sangguniang Panlungsod session yesterday morning. 

“It is unlawful for the mayor to transact business with anyone else without the authority from the Sangguniang Panlungsod,” Cabañero said.

While Cabañero was delivering his speech, Mayor Johnny De los Reyes was inside the session hall facing the councilor and listening to his speech.

“I personally checked the legal office whether a contract of lease was provided the mayor. I later found out there was no contract of lease for this transaction,” the councilor said. 

Cabañero also said Delos Reyes violated Section 3 of Republic Act 3019 otherwise known as anti-graft and corrupt practices when he received the payment because there was no authority for him to transact business. 

Since Delos Reyes was inside the session hall, the mayor  allies, Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante suspended the House Rules to allow the mayor to answer Cabañero’s assertions. 

De los Reyes said the sacks of pebbles came from Mindanao and are owned by a businessman who is a friend of his family.

The mayor said the businessman promised to pay P14,000 as rental for a space at the city hall compound. 

“They were temporarily placed at city hall with certain conditions imposed such as the payment of P2.00 per sack ug mibayad man sab sila sa atong treasury office,” the mayor said. 

De los Reyes, however, apologized for failing to inform the council over his move.

“If there is a violation, mangayo lang ko dispensa,” the mayor said. 

Councilor Doroteo Emit said the pebbles should have been cleared by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 

Cabañero said his speech was not intended to destroy the image and reputation of the mayor but “to send a strong message that we have a legislative body that is co-equal with the executive.”

Councilor Dennis Basillote, who is also an ally of the mayor, defended De los Reyes saying that not at all times will the mayor seek approval from the city council. (FREEMAN)