ICCC probe must observe due process, mayor says

ILOILO CITY Community College (ICCC) administrator Maria Mathilde Treñas-Octavio (fourth from left) denies allegations of mismanagement in the city government-run school during the hearing conducted by the City Council, Aug 20, 2018. (Louine Hope Conserva)

MAYOR Jose Espinosa III advised the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) to observe due process and fair play in investigating the alleged controversies hounding the Iloilo City Community College (ICCC).

Espinosa, a lawyer by training, said all complaints should be validated and confirmed.

“In dispensing justice, we have this rule on presumption of innocence. Everyone is presumed innocent and the inquiries should proceed upon due process. A verdict is rendered after a fair hearing and trial,” he said.

On August 20, 2018, the SP Committee of the Whole conducted an investigation in aid of legislation on the complaints of four ICCC teachers relative to the management and operation of the school.

Complainants Anelyn A. Janaban, Maria Fe Alejandria, Rezlie L. Marinez, and Arthur C. Soqueña claimed that the college does not implement the Magna Carta for Teachers particularly on the issues of promoting and regularizing unqualified teachers, giving substandard salaries compared to other public schools, realigning the budget, and use of obsolete books.

They claimed that some faculty members, who have stayed for more than three years, were not promoted despite their qualifications.

The complainants also claimed that ICCC administrator Maria Mathilde Treñas-Octavio employed job hires for repair works and to transport some items and household appliances to her apartment.

Octavio denied the allegations saying these are “blatant lies”, “false allegations”, and “an attempt to malign” her.

Espinosa said there is also no reason to relieve Octavio from office amid the investigation.

The mayor said prima facie evidence should be established first before he moves Octavio to another office.

“We cannot just be whimsical and automatically relieve her without due process. Both the accusers and the accused have rights and privileges,” he said.

Meanwhile, Espinosa shrugged off claims that politics is behind the probe.

While the investigation is ongoing, several ICCC students staged a rally at Plaza Libertad in front of the City Hall.

The students were holding placards accusing the City Council and the complainants of politicking, trial by publicity, and demeaning their college.

“Daw waay man. Pero tan-awon ta. Kag ngaa ara didto ang estudyante? May klase sila o waay?” Espinosa added.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian