City Enterprise chief denies 'solicitation'

AN OFFICIAL of the City Economic Enterprise and Economic Planning Services (Ceeeps) on Thursday vehemently denied allegations of market vendors in Toril public market that he has been soliciting donations for his birthday.

Jose Elmaro P. Guintadcan, chief of Ceeeps, speaking in Thursday’s I-Speak Forum at the city hall, said the allegations are nothing but a clear form of harassment.

The person (him) is already convicted by publicity without even asking the person involve," Guintadcan said.

The issue stemmed from a formal complaint filed by a group of market vendors from Toril public market before the office of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio last month.

The complainants alleged that a market collector has been circulating a letter allegedly from Guintadcan soliciting cash donations for the latter's birthday. The letter circulated around last month.

Guintadcan said he has already initiated internal investigation to look into the veracity of the complainants' claims that someone has been circulating a solicitation letter using his name.

As of Thursday, Guintadcan said there has still been no result of the investigation.

"Basig si kinsa, pwedi mo gamit ug laing pangalan ug sayon ra kayo mag drop name, pandaot ra ‘na sa akoa (Anyone can use someone else's name and it's too easy to drop name, it’s just a plot against me)," Guintadcan said.

Asked of when his birthday is, Guintadcan decline to elaborate.

Guintadcan added that one must not immediately judge him based on the allegations against him. He refused to elaborate on who could be behind the plot to undermine him.