Iloilo City Council Weighs Persona Non Grata Status
ILOILO CITY – The Iloilo City Council is contemplating declaring the Department of Public Works and Highways–Iloilo City District Engineering Office (DPWH–ICDEO) District Engineer Roy Pacanan persona non grata, marking a potential second occurrence of this action. This development follows the council’s recent session where concerns were raised over the engineer’s absence from critical hearings.
Councilor Romel Duron, chair of the committee on environment, highlighted that the decision to declare persona non grata will proceed if Roy Pacanan continues to avoid attending the quad committee’s investigation regarding the DPWH–ICDEO’s waterway projects within Iloilo City. “They invited Engr. Pacanan as a resource person,” Duron explained, emphasizing that the engineer “should not undermine their duty as a council, which was given to them by the public.”
Council’s Investigation on Waterway Projects
The investigation by the quad committee focuses on the waterway projects managed by the DPWH–ICDEO. The council aims to ensure transparency and accountability in these flood control initiatives, which are vital to the city’s infrastructure and safety. Local leaders noted that the inquiry aligns with the public’s right to know how these projects are being implemented and how they affect the community.
Mayor Treñas Responds to Engineer’s Remarks
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed her shock after Roy Pacanan described the city council’s invitation to the quad committee hearing as a “political demolition.” Officials reported that the mayor firmly rejected this characterization, stating that the council is merely fulfilling its responsibilities.
In a public statement, Mayor Treñas underscored that the council’s actions are in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), where he emphasized that all flood control projects must be thoroughly investigated. She pointed out the importance of the committee as a platform for gathering accurate information, which is crucial for drafting fact-based ordinances that respond to the needs of the people.
Importance of Accountability and Transparency
Community members and officials alike have stressed the significance of maintaining transparency in public works. The city council’s inquiry into the waterway projects reflects its commitment to holding government agencies accountable and ensuring that public funds are used effectively.
Mayor Treñas concluded that calling the investigation a “political demolition” is an unfounded accusation. She reiterated the council’s role in protecting public interest and supporting projects that genuinely benefit the residents of Iloilo City.
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