Executive‘role’ baffles councilor

CEBU, Philippines - “I am confused.”

This was the sentiment of Talisay City Councilor Valeriano Ylanan over the supposed executive functions granted to him by Mayor Johnny De los Reyes.

Last July18, De los Reyes made Ylanan the administrator of the urban planning, management and infrastructure planning development offices, as well as the economic zoning and planning office. Aside from Ylanan, Vice Mayor Romeo Villarante and Councilors Danilo Caballero and Aldin Diaz were also made to supervise various departments as representatives of the mayor.

But Ylanan said he was never made to do his job. He said it is now city administrator John Yre De los Reyes who is supervising the offices assigned to him. John Yre is the mayor’s son.

“I want to put it on the record nga wala ko mi-function kay wala man gyud sab sila’y gipasa sa akoang opisina,” Ylanan said.

Ylanan said necessary documents and papers never reached his office like documents for the Preliminary Approval and Locational Clearance on simple subdivision.

All lot owners and developers are required to apply for a Preliminary Approval and Location Clearance (PLAC) from the Office of the City Planning and Development Office before a Development Permit is being issued.

Ylanan is now asking for an explanation from the city planning and development office (CPDO) for allegedly defying the mayor’s executive order. The CPDO is under the supervision of the city administrator.

Ylanan, in yesterday’s session, passed a resolution asking the city legal office to render an opinion on who is truly authorized to sign documents related PLAC applications.

Councilors from both administration and opposition who requested anonymity said there is a “little” conflict between the executive and legislative departments. /JMO (FREEMAN)