IN ALBAY: Bongao assumes governorship amid Lagman’s suspension

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- Vice Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao formally assumed office as the acting governor of Albay on Monday, following a preventive suspension imposed on Governor Edcel Greco “Grex” Lagman by the Office of the Ombudsman. The suspension, lasting up to six months, stems from allegations of jueteng bribery.

In an interview with Bicol Mail, Bongao confirmed that her office received the suspension order, dated October 10, 2024, from the Ombudsman. Subsequently, she informed DILG provincial director Rey B. Caceres about her assumption of the governorship as per the Ombudsman directive.

The Ombudsman’s order cited Rule III, Section 9 of Administrative Order No. 7 and Section 24 of Republic Act No. 6770, which allows the preventive suspension of public officials during the pendency of a case, with a maximum period of six months without pay.

According to Section 46 of the Local Government Code, the highest-ranking official in the event of a local chief executive’s temporary incapacity assumes the executive’s duties, though they are restricted from appointing, suspending, or dismissing employees until the incapacity exceeds 30 days. Bongao stated that she was assuming the governor’s duties immediately.

Governor Lagman’s suspension was prompted by allegations from Alwin Nimo, a former barangay captain of Anislag, Daraga. Nimo accused Lagman of receiving P8 million in bribes from illegal gambling operators during his tenure as vice governor. Nimo’s complaint encompasses direct bribery, violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and illegal gambling penalties.

Lagman, however, has refuted the claims, describing them as politically motivated and lacking legal merit. “I have never received any jueteng payola,” Lagman asserted, vowing to legally challenge the suspension. He took to social media to reassure his supporters, stating, “All the good work that you have been doing will not be affected since my preventive suspension is personal to me.”

Lagman added that he intends to meet with Bongao to ensure a smooth transition and reiterated his determination to contest the suspension.