DAP investigates employees for urging removal of president

MANILA, Philippines — The administration of the Development Academy of the Philippines  has initiated a disciplinary inquiry against officials of its employees’ organization who called for the removal of the DAP president.

In a phone interview with The STAR, DAP Personnel Association (DAPPER) president Gerald Cruz said they received a show cause order directing them to explain why they should not be held liable for misconduct and disciplinary procedures.

He said the investigation is part of the alleged harassment committed by DAP officials against those who called for the removal of DAP president Elba Cruz.

“There is a continuing threat of mass termination and harassment of officers of the DAPPER. (DAP president) Attorney Cruz has continued to threaten employees with termination particularly those who oppose her policies and especially those who have affixed their signatures on the petition submitted by the DAPPER in a clear exercise of their right to free expression as guaranteed by the Constitution,” the association said.

“Her managers have been interrogating their respective staff and issuing veiled threats that any non-permanent appointee who has signed the petition faces the prospect of not being renewed when his or her contract expires,” it added.

Emmanuel Silan, DAP human resources managing director, confirmed that their legal department is conducting an inquiry following DAPPER’s press conference calling on President Duterte to remove Cruz.

But he denied allegations that the employees are being harassed.

“The security was given express command not go beyond what is legal,” he told The STAR, denying allegations that some DAPPER officials were physically harassed when they were picked up for questioning.

Silan also explained the termination of the contract with DAPPER vice president Earl Tongol, saying they have decided that his services are no longer necessary even if his contract is still effective until the end of the year.

“But he will be paid in full,” he said.

DAPPER’s Cruz said they will respond to the show cause order, but also stressed that they are ready to elevate the matter to the Civil Service Commission.

The employees’ association earlier urged Duterte to remove the DAP president, saying she is unfit for the job.

They welcomed the announcement of presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who said Malacañang will look into the petition.

“In light of such investigation, the employees expressed their fervent hope that DAP president Elba Cruz, their subject of complaint, will be immediately removed to allow for an unrestricted, free investigation, saying that she and her allies are now trying to cover their tracks and turn the tables on the employees through harassment and other covert actions,” DAPPER said.