Absentee local execs warned

MANILA, Philippines - Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo yesterday warned governors, mayors and other local government officials against absenteeism or face suspension or removal from office.

Robredo issued the warning after learning that some local government officials, particularly in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, failed to perform their sworn duties due to absenteeism.

“During the consultation, it was pointed out that absenteeism of local officials is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed in the interest of public service and in the promotion of good governance,” Robredo said.