DILG waiting for Comelec clarificationon Garcia’s suspension

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will not implement the suspension order imposed by the Office of the Ombudsman against Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia until the Commission on Elections (Comelec) clarifies the matter.

At a press briefing yesterday, DILG Undersecretary Rolando Puno denied that the agency refused to enforce Garcia’s six-month preventive suspension because she is an ally of the administration.

“It has nothing to do with whether she is a partymate or not. It is a legal question that validly needs a clear answer so the DILG can move forward,” Puno said.

Garcia’s suspension stemmed from her granting of a special quarry permit to a construction company without requiring an environmental compliance certificate and other documents.

“The DILG is waiting for the reply regarding a query that we sent in light of the pronouncement of the Comelec that suspension of elected officials during the campaign period must be approved by the poll body,” Puno said.

He said Garcia would remain in her post unless the Comelec issues a definite answer to the DILG query.

Puno cited the dismissal of former Albay governor Grex Lagman, which was immediately implemented by the DILG because the respondent did not file an appeal.

“In the case of Garcia, a clarification was filed on the matter. That’s the difference,” he said.