In a recent interview with Radyo Peryodiko, former Congressman Cesar Sarmiento expressed strong disapproval of the controversial declaration made by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Catanduanes against the sitting governor. Sarmiento called the move “uncalled for” and “unnecessary.”
Sarmiento compared the declaration to the concept of being declared “persona non grata,” a diplomatic term used for individuals deemed unwelcome in a particular area. He explained that the term is usually applied to foreign diplomats or officials who have committed wrongdoings, leading to their expulsion from a territory. He noted that this type of declaration is typically reserved for specific circumstances involving international diplomacy, not for elected officials within their own constituencies.
“This is something that belongs in the history books,” Sarmiento remarked, emphasizing that it was highly unusual and unprecedented to declare an elected official, particularly a governor with a mandate from the people, as unwelcome. He pointed out that such an action sends a message of division rather than unity, especially within a local government structure.
In response to the SP’s resolution, Sarmiento dismissed the measure as having no legal effect and questioned the actions and enforcement of the SP. While acknowledging the governor’s controversial statements may have led to the SP’s decision, he insisted that the real harm would fall on the people of Catanduanes, as the ongoing political tensions could disrupt the delivery of essential services. “At the end of the day, the ones who suffer are the people,” Sarmiento commented.
Sarmiento advised both parties—the Governor and the SP—to engage in dialogue and reconciliation. He urged them to focus on resolving their issues in a way that does not harm the interests of the people. “Bickering over personal matters will not help anyone. The public needs a settlement,” he said.
While Sarmiento acknowledged the political tensions surrounding the situation, he also suggested that the conflict could be tied to the upcoming 2028 elections, though he cautioned against speculation. He recommended that the priority should be the approval of the annual budget, which should be worked out through constructive discussions rather than divisive political moves.
Meanwhile, the Vice Governor of Catanduanes also weighed in on the issue, offering his advice to both sides. He called for unity and healing, emphasizing that reconciliation was crucial for the province’s progress. The Vice Governor reminded the Governor that achieving his plans would be impossible without the support of the SP, urging both parties to come together for the benefit of the people.
The situation continues to develop, but many agree that it is crucial for both the SP and the Governor to prioritize cooperation and dialogue to ensure the continued development of Catanduanes.
In a recent vote, the Catanduanes Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution declaring Governor Patrick Alain Azanza as “persona non grata” with an 8-1 vote. The resolution was sponsored by PBMs Edwin Tanael, Jose Romeo Francisco, and Dr. Santos V. Zafe, and was tied to ongoing issues between the executive and legislative branches of the local government.
The SP’s resolution cited the governor’s defiance of the SP’s appropriation ordinance for cash assistance to victims of Typhoon Uwan, and alleged that Azanza publicly attacked the SP, calling them “illegal, traditional politicians, corrupt, and ineffective.” These statements were deemed defamatory and baseless, with the SP accusing the governor of gross misconduct, discourtesy, and abuse of his influence on public platforms.
The resolution also described the governor’s leadership style as increasingly autocratic, which the SP contends goes against democratic principles. The resolution was passed with PBMs Santos Zafe, Edwin Tanael, Giovani Balmadrid, Arnel Turado, Jose Sonny Francisco, Jose Evan Balidoy, ABC President Tito Villamor, and SK President Alvin Rodriguez voting in favor, while PBM Benedict Gianan voted against it. Vice Governor Robert Fernandez, PBM Lorenzo Templonuevo, and PBM Xyrell Albaniel were absent during the session. | Francis Benedict | Bicol Radyo Peryodiko
