DILG contemplates under Garcia's leadership
Cracking Down on Suspension Orders: DILG Pauses Enforcement Amid Comelec Confusion
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, suspended by the Ombudsman back in April, finds herself in limbo as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) holds back on implementing her suspension. The holding pattern is due to the DILG's awaiting a reply from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) regarding Comelec Resolution 11059, which forbids the suspension of elective provincial officials during the election period without prior approval from the poll body.
DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications, Rolando Puno, confirmed that DILG is in a "tough position" and can't move forward until they hear from the Comelec. He explained that until the situation is properly clarified, the DILG will not make any moves to suspend Governor Garcia or other officials in similar circumstances.
DILG's stance on this matter is purely legal and procedural, with no political influence involved. They emphasize the importance of clear instructions from the Comelec to ensure proper implementation of election-related rules. Governor Garcia, on the other hand, has expressed her intention to challenge her suspension through legal means.
The DILG's recent position parallels with former Albay governor Grex Lagman's case, where suspension orders were instantly enforced as no appeals were filed. However, the pending clarification and appeal in Garcia's case have caused a temporary delay in the enforcement.
In essence, the DILG's decisions to enforce suspension orders for elected officials during the campaign period hinge on receiving explicit approval or guidance from the Comelec, highlighting a procedural safeguard designed to align suspension enforcement with election laws during election periods.
- The Cebu governor's suspension, despite being ordered by the Ombudsman, remains unenforced due to the DILG's wait for a response from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
- DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications, Rolando Puno, stated that the DILG cannot proceed with any suspension until they receive clarification from the Comelec.
- The DILG has maintained a legal and procedural stance regarding this issue, stressing the need for clear instructions from the Comelec to avoid any discrepancies in election-related rules.
- The elections, specifically the election period, play a crucial role in determining whether suspension orders can be enforced, as per the DILG's current policy.
- The general news is abuzz with the Cebu elections, as the delay in enforcing Governor Garcia's suspension adds an unexpected twist to the political landscape.
- Environmental concerns, policy-and-legislation, and other policy matters might be affected if the suspensions of elected officials are not handled according to proper procedures, as emphasized by the DILG.
