No retreat, no surrender for SP as Sullivan 'snubs' invite
Sullivan
Provincial Treasurer Melba Sullivan was a no-show in yesterday's session of the 9th Sanggunian Panlalawigan (SP) despite earlier invite officially sent to her office.
Yet in a consensus reached, another letter will be sent alongside an earlier request for Governor Niel Tupas Sr. to inform the SP body how much he and the Provincial Treasurer need to address the request.
Presiding Chair Vice Governor Rolex Suplico apparently could not hide his amusement when told that an "excuse letter" was sent by the Governor for and in behalf of Sullivan.
"I cannot remember having invited Governor Tupas or have we?," he said in jest that elicited laughter from the crowd. Second District Board Member Rodolfo Boy Cabado stood up to suggest that the matter be taken up in the Committee level. Third District Board Member Arthur Defensor Jr. for his part requested that Tupas be given "the benefit of the doubt" and heed the governor's request for more time.
In the end, the SP body agreed to just invite Sullivan one more time.
Requested to appear before the SP body to shed light on the province's financial condition, Sullivan sent word to SP Secretary Lorenzo Tubola regarding her absence. It was not immediately clear what reason was stated though sources said the Provincial Treasurer wanted more time to fully prepare in addressing the matter.
Sullivan's presence was called for following last week's privilege speech of First District Board Member Richard Garin who sought an update on the province's financial health.
"What is the financial state of our beloved province? How healthy, financially, is our Iloilo Province?," Garin asked while adding that "for the truth is, this province will only be as good as where our financial resources can bring us."
Also requested to shed light on Garin's query is Provincial Accountant Lyd Tupas and Provincial Budget Officer Elena Lim. The News Today (TNT) was told that General Services Office Chief Ramie Salcedo will also be invited in forthcoming SP sessions.
"When the cards are laid on the table, it is the only time that we will know how to deal with the hand that is dealt to us. Governance is not high-stakes gambling. We cannot afford to put up for stakes public funds," Garin continued.
TNT in an effort to reach Provincial Treasurer Sullivan was told by an office staff that the lady treasurer had to leave for the airport to meet a guest.
"Meantime, another department head will also be invited albeit for another issue. Human Resource Chief Alma Ravena will be called to give the SP body an explanation on the status of Manuel Boy Mejorada, top Tupas aide. Mejorada's appointment or reappointment as Provincial Administrator is under fire with opposition filed and pending before the SP.