Macuto defies JVR’s relief order

CEBU, Philippines - Talisay City Treasurer Emma Macuto defied the executive order issued by Mayor Johnny De los Reyes, opting to keep her office than transfer to the Tabunok Public Market as market administrator.

Her defiance was based on a letter from Bureau of Local Government Finance-7 chief Hermigilda Garsola telling her to stay.

While Macuto chose to stay, her daughter and former City Human Resources Division chief Hazel Macuto-Bathan was transferred to another office yet for the second time this year.

After Bathan was assigned as assistant department head of the City Cooperative Office, De los Reyes issued an order to transfer her to the City Planning and Development Coordination office.

The order for Bathan to transfer to the CPDC took effect last Thursday, the same day her mother’s transfer also took effect.

Bathan said she had no choice but to accept her new position since it was De los Reyes’ prerogative being the chief executive. She, however, maintained that politics could be behind this development.

Macuto, meanwhile, told reporters that she may be questioned if she would not obey the order of her direct head, BLGF.

BLGF’s letter to Macuto emphasized that De los Reyes has no jurisdiction to transfer or relieve her, citing a department order that only the Finance Secretary has the power to do so.

In a separate interview, De los Reyes said he will order City Legal Officer Alfredo Sipalay to send a letter to the BLGF to compel them to have Macuto relieved from her post.

He said Macuto is still under investigation over allegations that she mishandled the collection of taxes in the city.

Macuto denied the allegations, saying the city has been even awarded by the BLGF for three consecutive years due to efficient collection of business and real property taxes.

“My record and award would speak for itself,” Macuto said. — Gabriel C. Bonjoc of BANAT News