By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
The Negros Occidental’s Isabela local government unit (LGU) has yet to file charges against former town treasurer Nenette Escarda.
Provincial Legal Office head, Atty. Alberto Nellas Jr., said his office has already contacted Isabela Mayor Irene Montilla as they will assist the municipal government in the filing of charges.
However, Nellas said the documents are still being processed as hard evidence is needed for the filing of criminal case.
Earlier, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson dismissed Escarda for alleged grave misconduct, serious dishonesty and malversation of public funds.
Escarda was perpetually disqualified from holding public office, barred from taking civil service examinations and forfeited retirement benefits.
Her dismissal was in relation to an incident in January of this year when her house was allegedly burglarized with the robbers carting away P3.8 million in bank checks and P2.6 million in cash.
Escarda has already filed an appeal before the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for review of the Capitol’s decision.
Her legal counsel, Atty. Cesar Beloria Jr., said they decided to submit an appeal to CSC national office but opted not to file a motion for reconsideration.
“Ultimately, it will be the CSC who will decide,” Beloria said.
He said his client does not believe the charges are commensurate with the offense.
He hopes the CSC will side with Escarda while respecting the prerogative of the provincial government.
When asked about the planned filing of a criminal case against his client, Beloria said it is already expected and it is also the prerogative of the Isabela LGU.
“My client will face whatever case that is,” he said.
Beloria also revealed that Escarda is consistent with her position that she will repay whatever funds lost.
Escarda’s family is raising funds to “recompensate the money that was lost last January 21,” he said.
“It is to show good faith. She has no ill intent. They are actually selling properties from family members,” Beloria said./DGB, WDJ