Malasiqui officials file counter charge vs Armas

By Mortz C. Ortigoza

MALASIQUI – Mayor Armando Domantay and members of the Sangunian Bayan headed by Vice Mayor Mariano Espinoza have filed a counter-charge against Armando Armas, who filed a temporary restraining order questioning the mayor for entering into a contract with the Magic Group of Companies for building a P32 million two-storey business complex.

Domantay said that Armas had questioned the lack of hearing for the project, which would cause the demolition and transfer of old government buildings like the rural health unit, multipurpose building and post office that are located at the periphery of the municipal hall.

“We filed a case for moral damages against him (Armas) because he had put the honorable officials of the town in a bad light,” Domantay said.

He said there was nothing wrong with the transaction because the Sanggunian Bayan had authorized him in a resolution to enter into a memorandum of agreement with Magic.

“Everybody, except one, in the SB voted for the resolution,” Domantay said.

He said the project is contained in the town’s annual investment plan that also includes a provision for the naming of the Arenas Civic Center.

According to lawyer Geraldine Baniqued –who counseled this town in her capacity as provincial attorney – the TRO filled by Armas in San Carlos City has been denied by Regional Trial Court Judge Emma Bauzon.

Baniqued said that Armas has filed a motion for reconsideration after the denial.