PROBE given 15 days to investigate workers

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Vice Mayor Edgar Labella has directed the city’s Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification and Enhancement office to investigate its personnel who destroyed a concrete wall using a government vehicle.

PROBE chief Raquel Arce has 15 days to submit a report to the city legal office so that the workers’ administrative liability may be determined.

In the video captured by former The Freeman intern on February 25, PROBE workers are seen demolishing a concrete wall using the rear bumper of their service vehicle, which resulted to the truck’s step board being smashed.

Labella said the improper use of government vehicle is punishable under Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards of Public Officers and Employees, and other applicable laws.

“The demolition resulted to a damaged truck…we have to avoid wasting public properties and resources,” he said.

RA 6713 mandates public officials and employees to observe professionalism by performing and discharging their duties with the “highest degree of excellence, intelligence, professionalism and skill.”

RA 6713 stipulates that any public official or employee, regardless of whether or not he holds office or employment in a casual, temporary, holdover, permanent or regular capacity, committing any violation of this provision shall be punished with a fine not exceeding six month’s salary or suspension not exceeding one year, or removal depending on the gravity of the offence after due notice and hearing by an appropriate body. – Kristine B. Quintas/JMO (FREEMAN)