NEGROS Occidental Provincial Agriculturist Atty. Japhet Masculino is set to retire from his post on June 30.

In a letter sent to Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson dated June 3, Masculino said after 39 years of government service, he has decided to retire.

Masculino thanked Lacson for giving him the opportunity to serve under his administration, as well as the farmers and fisherfolk of Negros Occidental.

The retirement came after Masculino was issued a show-cause order for alleged unsettled catering bills by his office amounting to P1 million.

Lawyer Rayfrando Diaz, provincial administrator, said the governor has yet to choose as to who will replace Masculino, although several recommendations have already been forwarded for his approval.

"We should have a new provincial agriculturist by July 1," Diaz said.

He said the governor has already agreed with Masculino's retirement.

Asked if the retirement is connected to the show-cause order issued against Masculino for the alleged unpaid or unsettled catering services, Diaz denied any connection to the issue as Masculino had already agreed to pay the unsettled catering services.