Signature campaign starts to recall Corro

CEBU, Philippines -  Signatures are being gathered in Daanbantayan to support a recall petition against Mayor Augusto Corro.

Former town mayor Maria Luisa Loot accused Corro of taking advantage of the typhoon victims to cling on to his position. According to Loot’s camp, the mayor has threatened the people that those who will sign the petition will not anymore receive future assistance from both the government and private donors.

Corro denied it and remained steadfast. He accused his detractors of playing dirty politics and taking advantage of the situation while he is allegedly doing good in the rehabilitation effort.

“It’s waste of time para sa akoa, wa man gyud ko matandog ana, unsa’y ako ma-expect gikan sa ilaha, puros binuang ang ilaha,” Corro said.

At least 10 barangay captains allied with Loot have earlier filed graft charges against Corro for alleged unfair distribution of relief goods. But, another 10 barangay captains allied with Corro yesterday manifested their support to the mayor.

“We condemn those politicians who are out to take advantage of the present situation instead of helping our town,” read the manifesto of support.

Bakhawan Barangay Captain Bernardito Luche Jr. said the camp of Loot has convinced the people to sign the petition in exchange of relief assistance amounting to P5,000.

“Imbis motabang sila kini ang pikas sa kalisud sa panahon, pero ila gipahimuslan, ila hinoon gidaut ang nagda sa lungsod sa Daanbantayan,” said Luche.

 He said if there is anyone to be recalled, they are Councilors Bregidorietta Tancawan, Zenaida Abucay, Samuel Moralde and Association of Barangay Council president, Rex Novabos.

 Luche said Novabos, who beat him through toss coin in the ABC elections, is not performing his functions anymore.  

 Councilor Chona de Leon said Tancawan, Abucay and Moralde have been blocking the approval of the annual budget. (FREEMAN)