The Oriental Negros Sanggunian has deferred the reappointment of provincial legal officer Erwin Vergara in its regular session Wednesday, at the provincial Capitol Session Hall, in Dumaguete City.

Vergara's reappointment turned controversial following the objection of Board member Marcelo Adanza.(3rd district), who said he wanted to make sure the provincial board will choose a provincial attorney who will really defend the interests of the municipalities.

Mayor Lenin Alviola of Bacong is set to submit documents in support of Adanza's objection.

During the preliminary hearing, acting presiding officer Board Member Saleto Erames clarified that, their job is merely to determine whether Vergara is qualified or not, and whether he possess the minimum qualifications.

Erames said the provincial board members are bound to make a concurrence as their ministerial duty. He stressed that under civil service rules, the governor is given a wide latitude of discretion to choose his appointee.

Vergara said he would not have to appear before the Sanggunian but would extended courtesy if only to clear matters raised by Adanza.

"If there are any wrongdoing committed by Vergara, it must be ventilated and addressed to the proper administrative body or before the public prosecution office," Erames pointed out.*JG

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