Abra suspends barangay execs over ‘death penalty’ ordinance

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines —The Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of Bangued, the capital of Abra, suspended six officials of Barangay Calaba for approving an ordinance that imposes the death penalty on those who dump waste in the Abra River.

Suspended for two years were barangay chairman Renato Brassuella and councilors Marjun Santiago, Rosemel Viado, Carmelita Venus, Marlon Barroga and Daryll Blanes, who represents the Sangguniang Kabataan.

According to the SB, the officials committed grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, gross dishonesty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of service when they passed the measure.

In the controversial ordinance, a fine of P1,000 will be imposed on first offense, P1,000 and community service for the second offense and, for the third offense, the violator “will be shot.”

The SB said the ordinance was not submitted to the Bangued town council for review.