Former Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentevella said he may file a complaint against the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) Board of Directors for allegedly disobeying an order from the Office of the Ombudsman. Last year, Baciwa board member Eduardo Ravena was found guilty of grave misconduct, which resulted in his dismissal from service with cancellation of eligibility, and forfeiture of retirement benefits; along with perpetual disqualification from holding public office.
According to the 2019 congressional candidate, the utility firm’s approval of a resolution pertaining to the proposed joint venture with PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation includes “technical irregularities” because of Ravena’s status.
Baciwa has reportedly issued a notice of award for PrimeWater, which is currently pending review before the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel.
In October 2016, an administrative complaint was filed against Ravena, who was serving as a city accountant, on the grounds of grave misconduct in relation to P858,872 in alleged irregularities involving gasoline payments.
According to Puentevella, acting Local Water Utilities Administration administrator Jeci Lapus wrote a letter to Baciwa Board of Directors chairman, Atty. Lorendo Dilag, last September seeking “consideration and appropriate action” with regard to a complaint filed by Sarah Teresa Esguerra seeking the recall of Ravena’s appointment due to corruption allegations./DGB, WDJ