By CESAR JOLITO
Tensions erupted during a regular session of Sangguniang Panlungsod in Negros Occidental’s La Carlota City after members of the minority bloc staged a walkout, citing alleged disrespect and procedural lapses involving the presiding officer, Vice Mayor David Baga.
In a joint statement, La Carlota Councilors Jegie Aguirre, Akoy Sia, January Alvañez-Abad, and Mark Threx Rojo said their decision to leave the session stemmed from what they described as a failure to observe parliamentary courtesy and the use of allegedly offensive language directed at one of their colleagues.
The group stressed that minority members have the right to be recognized and heard during deliberations, underscoring the importance of due process and equal participation in legislative proceedings.
They also refuted circulating claims that they monopolized discussions in a previous session, arguing that participation depends on each member’s initiative.
According to the minority bloc, tensions escalated when remarks were made against Rojo, prompting them to raise a point of order.
However, they claimed the presiding officer continued with statements they deemed damaging to their reputation.
“We respect the rules of procedure and uphold the dignity of the city council, but we cannot accept actions that demean elected officials, especially in a public and widely broadcast setting,” the statement read.
The council session, which was streamed live on social media, drew reactions from netizens, further amplifying the issue beyond the session hall.
The minority bloc maintained that their walkout was not meant to disrupt proceedings but to take a stand for institutional integrity.
They called on the presiding officer and fellow council members to adhere strictly to parliamentary rules and ensure fairness regardless of political affiliation.
However, opposing views quickly surfaced, with some observers and supporters of the council leadership defending the authority of the vice mayor to maintain order during sessions.
They emphasized that under guidelines from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, presiding officers are mandated to enforce rules and facilitate orderly deliberations.
Critics of the walkout argued that leaving the session undermines democratic processes, suggesting that councilors should instead address concerns through formal debate.
Some also described the move as an evasion of accountability, pointing out that public officials are expected to resolve disputes through proper channels.
As of writing, the office of Vice Mayor Baga has yet to release an official response to the allegations.
The incident has sparked broader discussions on decorum, accountability and the conduct expected of elected officials in legislative proceedings, particularly in forums open to public scrutiny./CJ, WDJ