Durano wants TRO on wage issue dissolved

 CEBU, Philippines - Danao City Mayor Ramon “Boy” Durano Jr. has filed a motion for dissolution of the temporary restraining order issued by the Danao City Regional Trial Court ordering him and two city officials to process the salaries and benefits of 238 casual employees assigned at the Danao City Council.

Durano, represented by lawyer Gloria Dalawampu, manifested before the court that on July 26, 2012, they were informed that a copy of the court order granting the application for the TRO was released.

However, Dalawampu said that they have not been furnished with a copy of the said TRO dated July 25, 2012.  According to Dalawampu, the TRO dated July 25, 2012 in effect determines the issues involved before respondents can have their day in court, contrary to its purpose.

 She further said that the P2 million for damages and interest asked for by the petitioners is “abhorrently disproportionate”.

Dalawampu also said the TRO issued by the court in effect already granted the main prayer of the petition leaving practically nothing for the court to try except the petitioners’ claim for damages.

For allegedly withholding their pay since May, the casual employees filed a petition for damages, with mandamus, injunction, and TRO against Durano, Danao City human resources manager Galacito Camaongay and Danao City budget officer Teresita Almacen last week.   (FREEMAN)