City lawyer designated as acting admin chief

CEBU, Philippines — cCebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has designated City Attorney Briccio Joseph Boholst as acting City Administrator since September 18, 2026, while City Administrator Albert Tan is on leave.

In his order, Archival cited the “exigency of public service” and his authority under the Local Government Code of 1991.

The memorandum directs Boholst to “approve financial documents up to P5 million, sign employees’ electronic daily time records, and perform other related functions as directed.”

It further instructs “all offices and employees to cooperate and support Atty. Boholst in performing these duties.”

Tan, introduced by Archival as City Administrator in July 2025, confirmed to THE FREEMAN – BANAT NEWS that he is only “on leave” but did not elaborate on his reasons or timeline for return.

Tan’s tenure has been marked by controversy, more publicly over allegations of delays in the release of salaries for job order and project-based workers.

Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña criticized Tan in March, calling him “banga (inept)” during a State of the Barangay Address.

Archival later defended Tan, saying the administrator had been “working and producing results.”

Boholst, however, will simultaneously serve as the City Attorney of Cebu City, a position he has held since 2025 while serving as acting Administrator.

It remains unclear when Tan will return, as the mayor’s memorandum did not specify, nor did the latter discuss the details of his leave. — /IHM (FREEMAN)