Citizens claim 'victory' over suspended officials

IN A case likened to David and Goliath, the ordinary citizens of San Simon town emerged triumphant against their elected officials who were recently found guilty of several charges in relation to their purchase of land near the municipal hall.

Fourteen residents in San Simon, led by a certain Reymundo Almario, were the complaints in Administrative Case 03-2020, which led to the six-month suspension of Mayor Abundio Punsalan Jr., and Councilors Romanoel "Dading" Santos, Mark Macapagal, Irene Dagdag, Randell Bondoc and Archiebald Bondoc.

Violeto Villacorta of Barangay San Isidro, San Simon, who is among complainants, said the penalty meted to the local officials is a big win for the people and the municipality of San Simon.

"We cannot be more proud and happy that justice is once again serve and the ordinary citizens of San Simon, whom we represent, won over officials whom we trusted with our votes," he said.

Villacorta, meanwhile, belied claims that their case was politically motivated as they were only seeking justice for the irregularities the officials allegedly committed.

He added that their recent win is not the end of their crusade and will continue to be vigilant on the governance of their local officials, including acting Mayor Leonora Wong.

"We also encourage other residents to be vigilant and immediately report whatever irregularities so we can altogether fight corruption," he said.