By Dave Charles Responte
The Bohol Chapter of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas, led by its President, Board Member Romulo Cepedoza, has issued a manifesto expressing their unwavering support for Governor Aris Aumentado and the Punong Barangays.
These officials are currently facing a six-month suspension from the Office of the Ombudsman due to the controversy surrounding the Captains Peak and Garden Resort in Sagbayan.
This manifesto was deliberated and signed during the three-day Provincial Liga Congress held in Tagbilaran City from June 5 to 7.
The signatories include Board Member Cepedoza, other officials of the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas Bohol, and Liga presidents from various Bohol towns.
The manifesto states, “We, the undersigned officers and members of the Liga ng mga Barangay-Bohol Chapter, representing 1,109 barangays in the province, express our full and unwavering support to the governance under the leadership of Governor Erico Aristotle ‘Aris’ Aumentado. We stand united in the face of the recent issue that has gripped our province following the decision from the Office of the Ombudsman.”
The Liga ng mga Barangay Bohol Chapter also expressed their support for the 38 Punong Barangay in towns with protected areas who are members of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB).
The manifesto further states, “We do not believe that our officials, especially the Punong Barangays, were negligent in their responsibilities.”
The Liga noted that these officials have consistently demonstrated their dedication to various causes, including environmental conservation.
They emphasized that during the PAMB meeting, the members merely endorsed a resolution for approval, with the final decision resting with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Region VII.
The Liga firmly believes that those facing allegations acted without malicious intent or personal gain, but rather with the sincere aim of promoting and preserving the unique beauty and ecological significance of our province. They trust that the truth will prevail and fully support the officials as they navigate this period of scrutiny.
The officials of the Liga ng mga Barangay Bohol Chapter include President Board Member Romulo Cepedoza (Trinidad), Vice-President Rodulfo O. Tutor (Candijay), Secretary Sergio M. Bangalao (Tagbilaran City), Auditor Leonette L. Quin̈anola (Buenavista), and Treasurer Ian A. Bernadez (Batuan).
The Board of Directors comprises Jose G. Barrera (Antequera), Kenneth B. Estavilla (Pres. CPG), Jemilo T. Puertos (Dagohoy), Ian A. Bernadez (Batuan), Apolonio G. Castulo Jr. (Guindulman), Zenaido E. Jaspe (Pilar), and Cydon Cariso M. Camacho II (Getafe).