Encabo not surprised Gwen replaced her as PGSO head

CEBU, Philippines - Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s decision to take her out from her position as Provincial General Services Office head was expected according to Eva Encabo.  

In a text message to The Freeman, Encabo, who is currently on leave, said this is not new to her.  

“Not surprising, she already did that to me way back 2004 when she assumed as Governor,” said Encabo.  

Encabo was one of the department heads whom Garcia replaced after she reassumed office from her six-month suspension last week. Garcia reinstated Bernard Calderon who was the PGSO head before then Acting Governor Agnes Magpale replaced him with Encabo.

On her first day back in office, Garcia fired out Provincial administrator Eduardo Habin.

Last January 30, Habin served the order from then Acting Governor Agnes Magpale to the staff of Garcia advising them that the office will be padlocked.

Garcia was served her suspension last December but she refused to step down and only did so last January.  

Encabo, for her part, was also present when padlock order was served since her team was to conduct inventory.

The following month, Encabo revealed irregularities in the procurement of goods in some offices in their inventory which was done in all Provincial Capitol offices.

Magpale also said that Garcia replacement of department heads even if she has less than a week in office was expected.

Garcia also reinstated Provincial Social Welfare and Development officer Marivic Garces and Provincial Engineering office head Engr. Rodel Arreza.  

But Magpale already said that it would be for the next Governor to decide who he would want to retain and hire as department heads under his administration.

Governor-elect Hilario “Junjun” Davide III and Vice Governor-elect Magpale will be taking their oath this Sunday, June 30 and will start office on July 1.— (FREEMAN)