Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado has filed a motion for reconsideration with the Office of the Ombudsman challenging his six-month suspension over issues related to Captains Peak and Garden Resort, his legal counsel Atty. Doni Piquero has confirmed during an interview with DYTR news.
The motion was submitted following a 10-day period granted for filing after the suspension order was issued.
Piquero stated that Governor Aumentado had no role in the development of Captains Peak and Garden Resort located in Sagbayan.
He noted that at the time of the Protected Area Management Board’s resolution in 2018, Aumentado was not yet governor and did not receive an invitation to deliberate on the proposal.
The legal team expressed optimism for a swift resolution by the Ombudsman, given that numerous motions are expected due to the suspension of 69 officials in Bohol.
Governor’s Absence
In an unprecedented occurrence, Bohol has commemorated Independence Day without its governor, Erico Aristotle Aumentado, who is currently serving a six-month suspension from office.
Despite his absence, provincial officials proceeded with a modest ceremony on Wednesday.
Observers noted a subdued atmosphere this year, with a less prominent display of Philippine flags, which traditionally adorn the celebration.
Acting Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, alongside other provincial leaders, spearheaded the event.
Aumentado is reportedly seeking to overturn his suspension linked to the controversial Captain’s Peak project.
He has instructed his legal team to appeal to the Ombudsman for a motion for reconsideration.
The Ombudsman’s order also extends to eight sitting mayors and over 30 barangay officials. Romulo Cepedoza, president of Liga ng mga Barangay (LnB)-Bohol chapter, expressed hope for the swift exoneration of these barangay officials implicated in the Captain’s Peak issue.