Baguio Metropolis Mayor Benjamin Magalong resigns as ICI particular adviser

‘The Palace’s pronouncements regarding my designation, which run opposite to the phrases of my appointment, have undermined the function and mandate entrusted to me,’ Baguio Metropolis Mayor Benjamin Magalong says in his letter to the President

MANILA, Philippines – Baguio Metropolis Mayor Benjamin Magalong tendered his resignation as Impartial Fee for Infrastructure particular adviser simply days after he was named to the function.

Magalong submitted his letter of resignation to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday, September 26.

“The Palace’s pronouncements regarding my designation, which run opposite to the phrases of my appointment, have undermined the function and mandate entrusted to me,” Magalong stated within the letter, a replica of which was obtained by Rappler.

“Mixed with circumstances that already solid doubt on the independence of the Impartial Fee for Infrastructure, it has grow to be clear that my continued service is not tenable,” he added. Magalong stated his resignation is “efficient instantly.”

Since being named ICI adviser, Magalong had been accompanying Division of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon in inspecting public infrastructure initiatives throughout the nation.

As particular adviser, Magalong served because the ICI’s “investigator.” ICI was created by Marcos to research authorities flood management and infrastructure initiatives up to now 10 years.

Magalong served as Philippine Nationwide Police deputy director common and likewise as chief of the PNP Felony Investigation and Detection Group.

Magalong gained nationwide consideration when he was tasked to guide the police inquiry into the botched Mamasapano operation that killed 44 police Particular Motion Drive troopers in 2015.

Double job, battle of curiosity

At a Palace briefing on Friday, Press Officer Claire Castro stated Marcos had ordered his authorized staff to overview Magalong’s designation following questions on a attainable battle of curiosity and his twin function in authorities.

Labor coalition chair and Federation of Free Staff president Sonny Matula additionally earlier raised considerations.

“To insist on carrying two hats — as mayor and investigator — dangers making the probe seem like a half-hearted initiative, good in kind however weak in substance,” Matula stated.

He cited Part 7, Article IX-B of the 1987 Structure, which prohibits elective officers from being appointed to any public workplace throughout their tenure, until allowed by regulation or required by the first features of their place.

Magalong was additionally questioned over the tennis courtroom and parking constructing mission in Baguio Metropolis, constructed by the Discaya-run St. Gerrard Building.

Corporations linked to the Discaya household have been tied to anomalous flood management initiatives. Sarah and Curlee Discaya additionally admitted to giving kickbacks to politicians and DPWH officers to safe initiatives.

Magalong, nonetheless, maintained that the mission underwent correct bidding. – with experiences from Mia Magdalena Fokno/Rappler.com