Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental | Friday, June 16, 2023 the suspended Mayor of Bonifacio, Misamis Occidental Mayor Samson Dumanjug is now facing formal charges for violating Article 237 of the Revised Penal Code, which pertains to prolonging the performance of duties and powers beyond the legally allowed period. The charges were filed against the mayor based on three crucial elements required for the offense.
Firstly, it is established that the accused individual holds a public office within the municipality. Secondly, the legally mandated period for exercising the functions and duties of the said office has already expired or has been suspended. Lastly, despite the expiration or suspension, the mayor continued to exercise the functions and duties of the office.
In addition to the charges related to the prolonging of duties, the mayor has also been charged with a violation of Article 151, which involves resistance and disobedience to a person in authority or their agents. The charges stem from the mayor's failure to comply with a Memorandum Circular issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The memorandum explicitly recognized Acting Mayor Ricky Bulahan and Acting Vice Mayor Loloy Cuizon as the temporary replacements during the mayor's suspension.
Despite the clear instructions from the DILG and the acting mayor's order to vacate the office, the suspended mayor chose to disregard them. This refusal to recognize the authority of the acting officials further compounded the charges against the mayor.
The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the governance of the Municipality of Bonifacio and the overall adherence to the rule of law. It serves as a reminder that no one is above the law and that public officials must abide by the legal provisions governing their offices.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the residents of Bonifacio Municipality and the general public eagerly await the resolution of this case. The charges against the suspended mayor highlight the importance of upholding the principles of accountability and respect for authority within the public service sector.
Via Bhal Cabrera
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