Fernandez not heeding suspension pending motion

CEBU, Philippines – Talisay City Councilor Socrates Fernandez said he is not willing to heed his suspension order from the Visayas Ombudsman while his motion for reconsideration is still pending.

Last week, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) served the 90-day suspension order against Councilor Fernandez which was issued by the Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales.

Fernandez, however, said the Ombudsman gave him 10 days to respond to the decision, adding he was able to submit his motion for reconsideration on time through his counsel George Bragat.

He said he will just wait for the Ombudsman to resolve his motion, but if the decision would still not favor him, then he will talk to his lawyer again for their next legal move.

Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante, the council presiding officer, said he will consult with the DILG and the Ombudsman to check whether Fernandez is doing the right thing because he was afraid to be questioned why Fernandez continues to attend council activities like the regular sessions.

He said based on the law, Fernandez may file his motion but that he still has to serve follow the suspension order.

The case against of Fernandez started when his vehicle was driven by his son, Joavan and was apprehended by the police. Fernandez forcibly got his bag inside the car even if the vehicle was under police custody.

Fernandez was still the mayor at the time of incident. — Gabriel C. Bonjoc of BANAT News