• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Sagay City Legal Office is preparing an affidavit complaint against City Treasurer Juvy Pinongan, for endorsement to the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), in connection with the missing P7.3 million Health Emergency Allowance (HEA), for health workers who rendered services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, Sagay City Mayor Narciso “Narwin” Javelosa said they are working closely with the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Commission on Audit (COA), and BLGF to expedite the investigation.
Since the Treasurer’s Office operates under the jurisdiction of the BLGF, Javelosa said the case will be referred to them for appropriate action.
He added that the BLGF will oversee the proceedings, ensuring a fair and transparent resolution, while the City Legal office is carrying out an exhaustive investigation, which requires time to ensure facts and data are verified.
Javelosa said he initially borrowed P7.3 million to pay for the HEA of the hospital health workers, while Pinongan is being probed for the missing funds.
When he summoned and confronted Pinongan at his office, Javelosa said he was told by the City Treasurer that she was busy at that time, and that she forgot the combination of the vault where the money was allegedly being kept.
The mayor said the vault has been sealed and secured, while waiting for the COA representatives to witness the opening of the vault as part of the audit procedure.
Javelosa assured Sagaynons that the city government is taking every step necessary to urgently address the matter, albeit with caution.
He also enjoined the public to remain vigilant and refrain from spreading misinformation, as it may hinder their investigation, and/or cause unnecessary confusion.*
