Tuesday, October 10, 2006 Board members deny commenting v. guv By Marna H. Dagumboy
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- The Provincial Board (PB) of Pampanga said Monday it did not issue any statements that they will "assert their rights" if Governor Mark Lapid fails to deal properly with the controversial call of his aide Jun Castro to Board Member Johnny Quiambao.
During Monday's session at the Capitol compound here, Second District Board Member Wardy Chu clarified that there were no such statements and comments issued by any of the board members as regards the issue.
Chu said Quiambao and Castro's conflict is an isolated case, which should be arranged and settled between them.
"We would not like to be victims of those who are pushing for their own personal interest because we know for sure that the province's executive and legislative branches are now working harmoniously," he said.
"Well, to those who are using us you should be ashamed of yourselves. The next time you do this, think about it first because you're not doing anyone good and I think it is a very cheap shot that you create such a rift between the departments of the Provincial Capitol," he added.
Quiambao, for his part, said Castro has apologized following their controversial phone conversation over his participation in the investigation of a pending case involving a Chairman Javier Taruc of Barangay Madapdap, Mabalacat.
Taruc is facing an administrative charge filed by his constituents, mostly lahar victims from Bacolor. Quiambao chairs the PB committee on justice looking into the case.
Quiambao said that what transpired between them is now "water under the bridge."
"Let the public know that I still maintain my high regards and respect to our governor and will always be supportive of his programs. It is time to move forward and set aside too much politicking for the greater welfare of our beloved province. All is well that ends well," he said.
First District Board Member Tarcicio Halili, meanwhile, described the report as "baseless" and "unfair".
Knowing Castro, Halili said that there might have been a misinterpretation in his phone conversation with Quiambao.
Earlier, a reliable source said that majority of the PB members were slighted by a "discourteous" call made by Castro to Quiambao.
Vice Governor Joseller Guiao also denounced Castro for allegedly meddling in the affairs of the PB. He called the governor's attention to the incident, which, he said, "undermines the integrity and independence of the board."
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