By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Negros Occidental Provincial Agriculturist, Atty. Japhet Masculino, is set to retire from his post on June 30.

In a letter sent by Masculino to Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson dated June 3, he said after 39 years of government service, he has decided to retire.

Masculino thanked Lacson for giving him the opportunity to serve under his administration as well as the farmers and fisherfolks of Negros Occidental.

Provincial administrator, Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, said the governor has yet to choose as to who will replace Masculino, although several recommendations have already been forwarded for his approval.

“We should have a new provincial agriculturist by July 1,” Diaz said.

He further stated the governor has already agreed with Masculino’s retirement.

Asked if the retirement is connected to the show cause order issued against Masculino for the alleged unpaid or unsettled catering services, Diaz denied any connection to the issue, adding that Masculino had already agreed to pay the unsettled catering services./DGB, WDJ