Absentee local execs warned

MANILA, Philippines - With reports of the habitual absenteeism of local chief executives, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo yesterday reiterated his warning to governors and mayors to perform their mandated duties or face sanctions.

“Some local government officials are either frequently absent or holding office elsewhere, other than their official places of assignment,” he said. “The public deserves more responsible and performing local officials.”

Robredo said a governor or mayor is considered “habitually absent” if he stays at least 10 cumulative working days in a month, out of his or her work station, or out of his or her jurisdiction.