By CESAR JOLITO III

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said Provincial Tourism Officer Cheryl Decena and four former disbursing officers of the Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary may file their appeal before the Civil Service Commission (CSC) following their six-month suspension without pay.

Lacson made the clarification amid Decena’s statement claiming there was a “pattern of harassment” against individuals who have “honestly served the provincial government.”

“Their suspension underwent due process, and if they feel wronged, they can go directly to the CSC to appeal,” Lacson said, emphasizing that all disciplinary actions in the provincial government are based on evidence and procedure, not harassment.

“If they believe they were treated unfairly, the CSC is the proper venue. The provincial government stands by due process,” he added.

Also suspended were Mark de la Cruz, Ester Jane Ignacio, Alfredo Tolosa III, and April Love Wee, who were found administratively liable for slight neglect of duty due to irregularities and delays in remitting cash advances.

Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas, Jr. said the lapses led to mismanagement and a P3.5-million loss to Mambukal Resort for Calendar Year 2023.

He added that under the principle of command responsibility, Decena — then officer-in-charge of the resort — was held accountable for failing to address the unliquidated cash advances.

Nellas maintained that the decision was not an act of harassment but a matter of accountability.

“The offenses and anomalies were supported by substantial evidence. These are not acts of harassment but corrective measures to protect public funds,” he said.

He also noted that since the new management took over, the resort’s finances have improved significantly.

“Mambukal is now self-reliant and no longer dependent on cash advances. Its revenue has reached P75 million this year, and there is a marked improvement compared to previous management,” Nellas added.

‘Unwarranted’ 

Decena, however, described the suspensions as “unwarranted,” saying they complied with all liquidation requirements.

“I cannot just keep quiet now because I really feel bad,” Decena said, adding that those affected by the suspension have families to think of.

“Not everybody has the same status in life,” she added.

Decena said they will respect the process and are preparing to file a motion for reconsideration.

Lacson reiterated that the province welcomes their appeal.

The six-month suspension took effect on Tuesday, October 21./CJ, WDJ