A CAGAYAN de Oro City Hall worker's salary has been suspended after he was arrested by authorities for alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade at Gaston Park around 5 p.m. Monday, June 24.
Members of the Regional Special Operation Group in Northern Mindanao and Crime Against Persons and Property Desk of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office arrested Candido Echalico, 51, during an anti-drug operation.
Echalico is an Administrative Aide III and a regular employee of City Hall assigned at the City General Services Office. He has been in service for 26 years.
He also tested negative in the drug test conducted by the City Government on April 26, 2018. However, he is under close monitoring after several employees complained about his behavior.
Police tagged the suspect as a high-value target, considering his job as a government employee.
Seized from his possession were around P2,000 worth of substance believed to be shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) and his cellphone.
City Administrator Teodoro Sabuga-a Jr. said the City Government has its process in handling such cases.
"In the meantime, suspended ang iyang sweldo. Hulaton dayon nato ang decision and recommendation sa korte (his salary is currently suspended, and we will wait for the court's decision)," Sabuga-a said.
Sabuga-a was saddened with the incident, even as he said that government employees should be role models and effective agents of public service.
He also said the City Government is willing to assist and help its worker should he undergo rehabilitation.
"Because we believe there is life after rehab. Again manawagan ako kung naa pa uban nga taga city hall nga biktima sa droga (I am calling again to city hall employees who are victims of illegal drugs to) please submit yourself kay there is still hope for a change," Sabuga-a said.