By JEN BAYLON

The issuance of an arrest warrant against suspended Negros Occidental provincial administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II will not hinder his return to his duties at the capitol.

According to Provincial Legal Office head Atty. Alberto Nellas Jr., Diaz posted P30,000 bail in connection with the charges filed against him.

Nellas said Diaz’s legal team has filed a motion for reconsideration, as the case has not yet reached finality.

The arrest warrant was issued by the Himamaylan City Municipal Trial Court in violation of Republic Act 6713, also known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Nellas emphasized that the legal issue was a personal matter for Diaz, expressing hope for his eventual return to the capitol.

Earlier, the Binalbagan municipal government filed an expropriation case against Diaz, as he provided legal assistance for JLL Agriculture and Development, while he was simultaneously serving as provincial administrator.

The Office of the Ombudsman suspended Diaz for six months due to an administrative case related to the same allegations./JB, WDJ