"Businessmen planning to invest in the city would now think twice in doing so as Caloocan is in the midst of political controversy," the observers said. They added that if local officials would not do something to mend their conflict, the city residents would always be at the "losing end."
"How could they promote the welfare of their constituents if this is the case?" they asked.
The city council passed last week a resolution declaring Mayor Reynaldo Malonzo’s former ally Rep. Edgar Erice "persona non grata" after the latter’s pronouncement that the city government is on the brink of bankruptcy.
"For years we have been doing our best to attract investors and look for possible funds to be able to push projects for the benefit of our constituents," Councilor Susan Punzalan said in a statement. She added that they were saddened by Erice’s statements which according to her has put their efforts in question.
Erice, however, said he is unfazed by the city council’s resolution, maintaining that his allegations were based on the report conducted by the Commission on Audit (COA) and it could be verified. — Pete Laude