By Rowena Cruz Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace America INFANTA, Quezon - Mayor Filipina Grace America of Infanta, Quezon, is defying a prev...
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| Infanta Mayor Filipina Grace America |
INFANTA, Quezon - Mayor Filipina Grace America of Infanta, Quezon, is defying a preventive suspension order issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. The suspension, stemming from an administrative case filed by members of the Sangguniang Bayan, revolves around the alleged illegal operation of a cockfighting arena in Dinahican.
America, who survived an ambush two years ago, maintains her innocence and asserts that the suspension order is premature and invalid. She claims to have pending appeals with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and that the Provincial Council's decision violates her right to due process.
"This is a blatant attempt to sabotage my administration," Mayor America stated firmly in a video address on her official Facebook page on November 24. "They want to derail our progress and discredit my leadership. But I will not back down. I will continue to serve the people of Infanta."
The Mayor also challenged the legitimacy of a memorandum from Vice Mayor L.A. Ruanto demanding she vacate her office. Her legal counsel, argues that both the suspension order and the memorandum are procedurally defective and without legal basis. They contend that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan overstepped its bounds and failed to follow established protocols for imposing preventive suspensions.
Sources close to the Mayor hint that the timing of the suspension, so close to the 2025 elections, is no coincidence. They allege that political adversaries are exploiting the case to tarnish Mayor America's reputation and hinder her re-election bid.
This controversy has gripped Infanta, with residents divided in their opinions. Some stand with the Mayor, denouncing the suspension as unjust, while others believe she should temporarily step down while the case is under investigation.
Mayor America urged the citizens of Infanta to remain critical and discerning, cautioning them against unverified news and information from unreliable sources. She pledged to uphold the law and comply with any orders issued through proper legal channels, underscoring her commitment to transparency and accountability.
The situation remains tense, with the potential for escalated legal battles and political maneuvering. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for local governance in Infanta and serve as a precedent for future conflicts between local officials.
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