Soc Fernandez suspended

For Joavan’s jailbreak in 2013

CEBU, Philippines — Former Talisay City mayor and incumbent councilor Socrates Fernandez has been suspended for three months for simple neglect of duty after he allegedly conspired for the release of his son from the city jail.

The Department of Interior and Local Governance-Cebu Province told reporters yesterday that the order has been served and took effect last July 31.

Last January, the Office of the Ombudsman rendered a decision suspending Fernandez. However, it was only last July that the DILG received its copy of the decision and was tasked to coordinate with the incumbent city mayor to implement the suspension order.

Based on the decision, Fernandez was suspended for allegedly conniving with others to facilitate the escape of his son, Joavan. Due to this, he was administratively charged with "misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, oppression and abuse of authority." On the latter part, the respondent was not liable for any administrative offenses charged but for simple neglect of duty.

"Respondent is expected to ensure that systems or processes are in place to prevent unauthorized use of vehicles under his supervision," wrote Terrence Anton Callao, graft investigation and prosecution officer in the decision.

It was last May 8, 2013 when Joavan escaped from the city jail in a government vehicle. He had been arrested three days earlier for illegal possession of explosives and firearms.

Earlier that day Joavan was visited by his wife and children. A jail guard let Joavan out of his cell so he could hug his children. Then, there was a caller on the phone who talked with the jail guard. It was at that moment, Joavan ran to a government-owned car parked outside and escaped. The said car, a Mitsubishi Adventure, was allegedly provided by his father after conniving with the jail guard.

However, evidence failed to show that Fernandez indeed played a part in the escape plan.

With the suspension in effect, Fernandez can only resume his post in December this year. (FREEMAN)