Negros Occidental Power Summit to Secure Stable Local Supply
Bacolod City — The Negros Occidental provincial government has launched an investigation into three employees from the Provincial Veterinary Office accused of soliciting payments in exchange for speeding up permit releases. The legal department is actively pursuing this case to maintain integrity in local operations.
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz confirmed on July 4 that the Provincial Legal Office (PLO) is handling the complaint. Show cause orders are set to be served to the three personnel involved, ensuring a formal response to the allegations.
Investigation and Show Cause Orders
According to Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas, the show cause orders were initially scheduled for July 4. However, the employees were on duty assignments, postponing the delivery of these orders to July 7. This step marks the formal beginning of the disciplinary process.
The complainants submitted a letter to Diaz, alleging that the three employees demanded payments specifically for releasing Recognition of Active Surveillance (RAS) permits. These permits certify that hog farms or local government units have implemented measures to detect and control African swine fever (ASF), a disease that has severely impacted pig farms in the province.
Significance of RAS Permits and Alleged Corruption
The RAS permit is vital for hog raisers as it allows them to transport pigs to other regions legally. The complainants provided evidence, including messenger conversations where one employee referred to the payment as “pang lagaw (for leisure).” They also submitted a receipt showing a payment made through a money transfer service, confirming the exchange of funds.
The complaint highlights a worrying pattern: the employees allegedly accepted gifts or payments in return for preferential treatment or permit issuance. Such actions are unethical, illegal, and compromise the credibility of the Provincial Veterinary Office, local leaders noted.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
The complainants requested anonymity to protect their identities throughout the investigation but remain willing to assist authorities as needed. The provincial government is committed to addressing these allegations promptly to uphold public trust and ensure fair service delivery.
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