By Mae Singuay

A department head at the Bacolod City Government Center is facing a 60-day preventive suspension after an administrative charge for grave misconduct was filed against him.

City Agriculturist Goldwyn Nifras confirmed that he received the suspension order on June 21, based on a report from dyHB RMN Bacolod.

Romeo Carlos Ting Jr., city legal officer, said a complaint was filed against Nifras for the alleged unauthorized rental of a tractor owned by the city government.

However, the city agriculturist denied the allegations.

“Ma-file pa man ‘ko answer. But I categorically deny the charge made against me,” Nifras said.

He claimed the farmers paid the operator of the tractor, but not for the rent.

The equipment was reportedly used by the members of the Highly-Urbanized City Agricultural and Fisheries Council.

Meanwhile, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, during a press conference on July 20, said an investigation is ongoing and they will follow due process.

Benitez said several complaints have been filed against some department heads and city employees, including job order casuals, allegedly involved in illegal activities.

“It is now the time to hear their side,” Benitez said.

He said the City Treasurer’s Office discovered at least 90 fake business permits, official receipts and assessments.

Benitez attributed the discovery of several fake documents to the active participation of the public in reporting such illegal acts.

“Anybody can be an informer,” he said.

The city government will conduct an investigation to determine if these illegal acts have the consent of city hall employees or from fixers./MS, WDJ