Comelec-W. Visayas has 2 reg'l directors?

BACOLOD CITY , Philippines— The Comelec in Western Visayas, in effect, has two regional directors with the recent designation of Remlani Tambuang, but with the current director, Dennis Ausan, still remaining in his post.

Tambuang, who was interviewed by reporters Thursday, said he was assigned by Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes as the regional director for Comelec-Region 6, replacing Ausan, effective Oct. 1.

Ausan however countered, "I did not take a leave, I was not relieved and I am still functioning my mandated functions."

Tambuang insisted on his designation. "I am the official regional director, I will sign all the documents. The order of the chairman (Brillantes) is for director Ausan to assist me," he said.

Ausan somehow agreed: "Officially, it is director Tambuang who will be doing the signing of everything as official election director of Region 6 at least for the entire election period, temprorarily until Nov. 12."

He told the media that Brillantes' order was "for me to work closely with (Tambuang), closely collaborate with him with all the tasks of a director we share. We share the load, before he comes up with decision he has to ask me as he is not familiar with the peculiarities of the region," Ausan added.

The Comelec has reshuffled its regional directors and provincial election supervisors for the barangay polls.

Tambuang clarified though that his assignment in Region 6 was only temporary, or for the barangay polls only. He was previously assigned in Region 11 or Davao Region.

He explained that he has relatives running for the barangay polls in Davao, the reason why he was assigned to Western Visayas. (FREEMAN)