In Compostela new officials want to know financial status, properties

CEBU, Philippines - Newly-installed Compostela Mayor Joel Quiño said yesterday he will ask the Commission on Audit (COA) to conduct a special audit to determine the actual finances of the town.

The Municipal Council also directed the Municipal Treasurer’s Office to conduct an inventory of all equipment and properties owned by the municipal government.

In yesterday’s regular session, the Council agreed to request Municipal Treasurer Cleofe Gonzaga to conduct an inventory of all properties owned by the previous administration.

In a talk with reporters, Quiño said he wants to know the transactions entered into by the previous administration headed by former mayor Ritchie Wagas. Quiño said he wants transparency in his administration and wants the public to be involved in addressing the problems in the town, particularly the delivery of basic services.

Quiños first memorandum as mayor was to inform all department heads, section heads and other national government offices that he and his group has re-assumed office last Monday. He will also furnish the regional office of COA a copy of the letter.

Quiño is set to meet with the members of the Local Development Council to discuss the plans and programs of the municipal government with the support of the private sector.

He stressed the need for short term and long term plans. One of the problems that need immediate attention is that of garbage.

During the Council session, Vice Mayor Antonette Dangoy sought for cooperation among members of the executive department. All department heads were invited to the session.

Meanwhile, Compostela Police Chief Sr. Insp. Allan Rosario said the police can perform their tasks better now that the town has its own officials.

Rosario said their logistical support was very limited during the time leadership in the town experienced a deadlock. In a courtesy call, Quiño assured Rosario of support for the local police.

“So far wala siya ni-specify ug unsa gyud but full support iyang giingon,” Rosario told The FREEMAN in a phone interview.

Rosario said one of the major difficulties they encountered was sending reports and blotter entries to the Cebu Provincial Police Office because what they are using is an obsolete computer.

“Admin matter mo-rely mi sa computer nga karaan since 2006 pa jud ni,” Rosario said.

Rosario said he will bring up during the meeting with Quiño today the plan to modernize the local police office. Among those he wants to seek support for are for new handheld radios, new computer units and additional fuel allocation. He said these items are very useful, especially during emergencies.

“Mas mo-effective ang performance sa PNP if ever matugunan ‘yung needs with the help of LGU,” Rosario said.

Quiño, Dangoy and the town councilors assumed office last Tuesday after their proclamation in Manila last Monday following an almost two-year battle concerning the results of the 2010 elections. — (FREEMAN)