Suspended Davao del Norte governor leaves office

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Suspended Davao del Norte Gov. Edwin Jubahib has left his office at the provincial capitol after staying there for almost three weeks to defy the order issued by Malacañang.

Jubahib’s suspension originated from a complaint filed by board member Orly Amit, whose vehicle was recalled by the governor.

In a video message posted on social media, Jubahib said he decided to leave his office to give capitol employees a better working environment.

After Jubahib’s suspension, acting governor Carlo Uy held office at the People’s Center of the Bulwagan ng Karunungan Building in Tagum.

Jubahib said employees from the offices of the governor, provincial administrator, and social welfare and development were crammed in a small area of the Bulwagan.

He asked the current provincial government to spare the employees from issues surrounding him.

Jubahib transferred to the Tahanan ng Punong Lalawigan, the official residence of the governor located in the compound of the capitol.

Uy said he would continue holding office at the People’s Center even as Jubahib has left the capitol grounds.