Capitol tension affecting PWDs group – president

CEBU, Philippines -The tension in the Cebu Provincial Capitol has affected small groups, according to some members of the Federation of Persons with Disabilities.

Alpio Dacut Jr., president of the Federation for the Welfare of PWDs in Cebu province, said that they received a letter from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office signed by the office’s Officer-in-Charge Evelyn Cenajon.

Dacut said that the letter invited them to attend a meeting at the Capitol last Wednesday for a strategic planning for 2013. He said that they attended the meeting but were surprised when they were informed that an election for new officers would be done.

“Natingala mi kay pag buntag wala jud planning nahitabo. Ang main purpose diay is to conduct new set of officers.” (We were surprised because there was no planning discussion made. It turned out that the main purpose is to elect new officers.)

Provincial Board Member Arleigh Sitoy was reportedly the one who informed them that an election is needed, said Dacut.

Further, he added that they were told an election is needed because they allegedly were not active. But he denied the claim and said that all their programs would reflect in the Commission on Audit since their programs are funded by the government.

He also said that they are opposing the election since according to their Constitution and by-laws, they have two years to serve as officers.

However, Sitoy said that they suggested an election since there has been a conflict within the group, involving Dacut and another PWD president, Michael Pielago.

Sitoy said that Pielago and other members are questioning the legitimacy of Dacut’s position since it was not final during the election a year ago due to conflicts.

Due to this, activities and programs have not been well supported by all members which is why they saw the need for an election to solve the problem.

Sitoy also clarified that the concern has nothing to do with the rift in the Capitol.

Dacut said that they should be spared from political bickering since they are independent.

But Sitoy said “wala man muingon kung kinsa iilis. Ato-a is mag-election, bisan kinsa makadaug. Whoever wins sige, basta legitimate.” (We’re not telling them who to elect, as long as they have an election.)

Sitoy said that an election would not violate any laws as claimed by Dacut since the group does not have any constitution and by-laws yet.

The board member also said that he has spoken to Dacut on the concern and he allegedly agreed to an election before.

Sitoy said that the election have been moved to give time for all the presidents to prepare.(FREEMAN)