Compostela political conflict is over soon

CEBU, Philippines - The year 2011 ends tomorrow but the Commission on Election still has to resolve the election crisis in Compostela with half of the term already consumed.

Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale hopes the Comelec shall resolve the problem next month as she and some government officials are taking care of the needs of the constituents for the meantime.

“It’s really a problem,” she said, saying that she heard from barangay officials that the Comelec will resolve the matter on January.

Magpale said she and colleagues like board member Jude Durano Sybico and Rep. Ramon “Red” Durano assumed responsibility of the local officials and are offering assistance to the residents and barangay officials in times of tragedy like storms or flooding among others.

She said they are also coordinating with Governor Gwendolyn Garcia in case of further needs that the Provincial Capitol can grant.

“Maayo gani gahapon (Dec. 28) wa kaayo sila’y damage,” Magpale said, referring to the flashfloods that struck other towns.

She said barangay captains also seek their help.

Magpale recalled on Christmas Day last year when they had to go to Barangay Mulao of the said town because the road was severely damaged.

Since 2010, Compostela was left with no mayor and municipal council after mayoralty candidate Richie Wagas filed an electoral protest against mayor-elect Joel Quiño and the rest of the winning candidates.

Magpale said new barangay officials are not included in the new budget with the absence of municipal officials.

Only those who have plantilla positions or those included in the old budget allocation shall receive benefits, Magpale revealed.

“Pait g’yud sila. Unta ma-resolve na jud ni nga problema sa Comelec,” the vice governor said. (FREEMAN)