Archival eyes Emma Villarete to assume city treasurer's role

Following the controversy surrounding the multimillion-peso garbage deal that led to the dismissal of several Cebu City Hall officials, City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. is now preparing to implement the order and is eyeing Emma Villarete to assume the role of city treasurer.

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It can be recalled that the Office of the Ombudsman found probable cause to indict 11 individuals—including Cebu City officials and private contractors—in connection with the P239.7-million garbage collection scam that rocked the city in 2021.

This was detailed in a resolution dated February 4, 2025, which charged the following respondents with violations of Section 3(e) of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), and Malversation of Public Funds or Property.

Among those indicted were former city administrator Floro Quique Casas Jr., Department of Public Services (DPS) head John Jigo Gaston Dacua, Environmental Monitoring Team leader Grace Luardo-Silva, city government personnel Allen Omlero Ceballos, Romelito Asinjo Datan, Mark Abarquez Ugbinar, Jerome Visarra Ornopia, and Cebu City Treasurer Mare Vae Fernandez Reyes.

Also included were private individuals Jayra Angelic Maninog Ruiz-Javier, John David Sevilles Javier, and Erika May Quino.