MANDAUE City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano will retain the current department heads but warned against non-cooperation during his administration, while he ordered an investigation on the alleged delay of salaries of non-regular workers at City Hall.
On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Ouano emphasized continuity in local governance but made it clear that full cooperation is expected from all department heads and personnel.
“Let’s not resort to sabotage, or else I will be forced to impose penalties,” he said in Cebuano. “If there’s no need to change a department, then why replace it?”
While no department heads will be replaced, Ouano said key personnel within departments will report directly to him to ease the transition and build rapport.
“I don’t have a personal relationship with the current personnel yet,” he said. “Some of them came from the previous administration, so it’s natural that some may still favor the old leadership.”
Ouano succeeded former mayor Glenn Bercede, who is now the vice mayor. Bercede became mayor after the suspension and eventual dismissal from service of then mayor Jonas Cortes due to grave misconduct cases.
Ouano clarified this move was not intended to sideline officials but to ensure accountability and proper communication.
On his first full day as mayor, Ouano visited various offices at City Hall, including the City Planning and Development Office, City Treasurer’s Office, Assessor’s Office and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. He introduced himself, heard employee concerns and checked on operations.
Common issues raised included cramped workspaces and the need for repairs. Ouano said these concerns would be studied further.
Delay in salary releases
However, the major issue during a June 30 meeting with department heads was the prolonged delay in salary releases for job order (JO), contract of service (COS) and clean and green workers.
Ouano said around 4,000 to 5,000 workers have experienced delays of up to two to four months.
“I can’t believe it’s taking that long. This needs to be addressed right away,” he said, adding that JO payments were two months behind, while COS workers faced four-month delays.
The mayor plans to meet with the accounting department to investigate the cause. He acknowledged rumors that the delays were intentional but said these are unverified.
“Other LGUs (local government units) don’t have delays like this. We will investigate, and if necessary, we will stop it,” he said.
Ouano vowed to fast-track the salary release process.
“During my term, employees will be paid on time,” he said.
The meeting served as the mayor’s formal introduction and an opportunity for department heads to raise operational concerns. / CAV, TRIXCY SHIEN COBARDE, BENEDICTO COLLEGE INTERN