Axed Caraga-MGB chief appeals case

BUTUAN CITY, Philippines – A former chief of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in the Caraga region has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to rule on his appeal questioning his suspension.

Roger de Dios, who has been suspended since last May, said his relief was unconstitutional, as it was implemented amid an election ban.

De Dios said his superior, MGB director Leo Jasareno, allegedly did not give him a chance to explain his side.

Jasareno ordered De Dios suspended for refusing to follow an order prohibiting the latter from granting a permit to a Surigao-based nickel mine firm.

De Dios said he was merely following a court order, which directed him to issue an ore transport permit to Shuley Mines Inc.