Mayor 'ignores' order for city treasurer's return

Implementation of the directive in Central Visayas was carried out by BLGF Regional Director Gerardo A. Avorque, who personally accompanied Rivera to the City Treasurer’s Office on Tuesday in anticipation of the assumption process.

- Jonnavie Villa/RAE

No turnover of accountabilities took place during the visit, as Rivera said the mayor did not face the BLGF regional director and objected to his return.

"Unfortunately, the mayor objected on my return. Last Tuesday, the regional director of BLGF accompanied me to assume office. However, again, the mayor did not face the regional director," said Rivera.

To avoid escalation and possible disruption, Rivera said he was advised to formally notify all offices of his assumption and to temporarily hold office at the BLGF regional office.

In a letter addressed to Finance Secretary Frederick Go, coursed through the BLGF, Rivera said the move was necessary due to the tense situation at the City Treasurer’s Office and concerns for personal safety and the work environment of city employees.

“Any failure on my part to assume office despite a valid and subsisting directive would expose me to administrative liability,” Rivera said in the letter.

Rivera stressed that, under the Local Government Code, city treasurers are appointed and supervised by national authorities to safeguard public funds and ensure fiscal independence.