Minglanilla Mayor Rajiv Enad found allies in Cebu’s political leadership after the Office of the Ombudsman filed graft charges against him, with Governor Pamela Baricuatro and several First District officials publicly expressing support as the case heads to court.
In a joint statement, elected officials under the Alayon Party declared their solidarity with Enad, suspended Vice Mayor Elanito Peña, and members of the Minglanilla Sangguniang Bayan, while emphasizing their confidence in the legal process.
The statement was signed by First District Rep. Rhea Mae Gullas, Board Members Antonio Bacaltos Jr. and Lakambini Reluya, and the mayors of Talisay, Naga, Carcar, Minglanilla, San Fernando, and Sibonga.
Without commenting on the merits of the case, the officials said the respondents deserve fairness and due process.
“We express our full and unwavering support for Minglanilla Mayor Rajiv Enad, Vice Mayor Elanito Peña, and the members of the Sangguniang Bayan who were recently charged by the Office of the Ombudsman,” the group said.
“As they go through the legal process, we stand firmly beside them and reaffirm our continued support throughout these proceedings,” the statement added.
The officials also expressed confidence that the judicial process would be carried out fairly.
“We remain confident that due process will be upheld, that all parties will be given a fair opportunity to be heard, and that the truth will ultimately prevail,” they said.
Calling for an impartial resolution of the case, the group added: “United in solidarity with Mayor Enad and all Minglanilla officials, we remain hopeful that this matter will be resolved with fairness, impartiality, and justice, in accordance with the rule of law.”
Governor Pamela Baricuatro also voiced her support for Enad, commending his performance as mayor.
“You have my support Mayor! You’re one of the best-performing mayors in Cebu Province. Padayon lang and keep your head up,” Baricuatro said.
The expressions of support came after the Office of the Ombudsman announced the filing of graft charges before the Regional Trial Court in Naga City against Enad, Peña, 10 members of the municipal council, and Municipal Administrator Junrie Casquejo Bragat.
The Ombudsman found probable cause to charge the officials with alleged violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
The case stemmed from the municipal government’s denial of a proposed environmental rehabilitation plan submitted by Jomara Konstruct Corp. and Jomara Agri Foods and Supply Corp. for a property in Sitio Napo, Barangay Guindarohan.
According to the Ombudsman, the proposal was repeatedly rejected despite recommendations from concerned government agencies, prompting the filing of criminal charges against the local officials.
Photo courtesy of Mayor Rajiv Enad / FB
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