The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Lanao del Norte has issued a 90-day preventive suspension order against Kauswagan Mayor Rommel Arnado for alleged grave abuse of authority and grave misconduct. The Provincial Board has also passed a resolution urging the provincial governor to implement the suspension.
This decision stems from a complaint filed by Barangay Bagumbayan Chairwoman Evangeline Jubas, who alleged that her preventive suspension by Mayor Arnado was carried out without following legal procedures. Jubas, alongside Barangay Council Member Fortunato Densing, was suspended by the mayor for allegedly interfering with the operation of the barangay’s water system.
Atty. Eleuterio Obial Jr., First District Board Member and chairman of the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, emphasized that Mayor Arnado’s actions violated Section 63, Paragraph B of Republic Act 7160, also known as the Local Government Code. “The law provides clear guidelines for such actions to ensure due process,” Obial explained. “The failure to comply with these requisites constitutes abuse of authority.”
Jubas’s complaint highlighted that her suspension lacked due process, prompting her to seek intervention from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. After a thorough review by the Committee on Justice and Human Rights, the Provincial Board determined there was merit in her allegations, which led to the issuance of the preventive suspension order against Mayor Arnado.
As of this writing, Mayor Arnado has not reportedly received a copy of the suspension order. The governor’s office is currently assessing the resolution passed by the Provincial Board, and further developments are awaited.
In a related matter, the Municipality of Kauswagan has denied allegations circulating on social media accusing the local government of corruption, including claims of unpaid real property taxes amounting to PHP 60 million. According to the Municipal Treasurer’s Office, all real property taxes (RPT) for the tax year 2023—amounting to approximately PHP 57 million—have been fully paid. Advance payments for 2024 have also been made up to March, with the remaining balance of approximately PHP 15 million currently in process for remittance.
The Treasurer’s Office affirmed that all tax payments are fully documented with receipts and summary reports, adhering to government rules and regulations. These documents are available for review at the Treasurer’s Office.
The Municipality of Kauswagan strongly condemned the spread of malicious rumors, attributing them to individuals attempting to tarnish the reputation of the local government, which has been recognized nationally and internationally for its effective leadership and good governance.
Residents have been urged to scrutinize unverified social media posts and refrain from sharing false information. The municipal government reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability while calling for public vigilance against fake news.
This case underscores the importance of following legal frameworks to resolve governance disputes and maintain accountability among public officials. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as the controversy unfolds.