‘Let DILG decide on Ilocos pols’ suspension’

VIGAN CITY, Philippines – The decision to implement a suspension order against Mayor Roque Verzosa Jr. of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur and Councilor Arthur Chua now depends on the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Gov. Ryan Luis Singson said the provincial government served the order on Verzosa and Chua on Wednesday.

Singson ordered the officials suspended for refusing to honor quarry permits issued by the provincial government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

 The provincial board recommended a two-month suspension for each official after the local DENR office accused Verzosa and Chua of grave misconduct, insubordination, abuse of authority and conduct unbecoming of public officials.

After the complaint was filed the municipal government of Tagudin stopped the quarry operations in the area.

The provincial board rejected the municipal government decision, noting it was meant to get back at the complainants.

“The Local Government Code provides that the provincial government and not the mayor has the authority to cancel or revoke quarry permits,” Singson said adding Verzosa abused his power for stopping the quarry operations.