BOD termination: MCWD mess to be resolved soon - Labella

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella is confident that the issue about the defiance of the members of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District’s Board of Directors to his termination order will soon be resolved.

In connection to MCWD’s claim that no local government units (LGUs) can interfere to them and they are autonomous, Labella stressed that the city is banking on an existing jurisprudence.

He clarified that there is no interference happening.

“There is a principle in jurisprudence or in law that the authority to hire carries with the authority to fire, especially if the position is primarily a confidential position,” said Labella.

“If you do not have already the confidence given to you, then that appointment can be revoked at any time,” he added.

In a letter dated October 17, MCWD Board Chairman Jose Mari Yu told Labella that they are not complying with the termination order.

“If they want to question that jurisprudence, then they can go to court. They may ask for an injunctive relief. It’s up to them,” said Labella.

Labella said that the MCWD board already knows the legal ramifications and legal consequences if they refuse to step down.

He added that he has referred such matter to City Legal Officer Rey Gealon.

“I have instructed the city attorney what to do under the circumstances,” said Labella.

He, however, has not still elaborated on what the legal consequences the MCWD board may face if they will not comply with his order.

Meanwhile, Labella is yet to appoint new members to the MCWD board because he still needs to consult the city officials.

“We should know the kind of members of the board that we should appoint,” said Labella.

At least 25 names had been floated to fill the vacant posts at the MCWD board, including former Cebu City mayor Alvin Garcia, newspaper columnist and radio commentator lawyer Frank Malilong, and Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s trusted advisor, lawyer Manolette Dinsay.

Labella, who has the authority to appoint the members, said that the basis in appointing the new MCWD board of directors includes the candidate’s merits and qualifications.

He said that the next member of the MCWD board must have good managerial skill, good working knowledge on the water technology, and most importantly, "must have the heart and integrity."

He added that he is willing to accept recommendations on the people who deserve to be in the positions.

“All recommendations are welcome. I will just exercise my authority to appoint,” said Labella. (FREEMAN)