THE OBSERVER
By Glenn Vidal Beup

Retired Judge Roger Patricio’s comment against Board Member Remia Fuentes-Bartolome was uncalled for. According to Patricio, the legal opinion made by BM Bartolome should not be given credence since the former is a politician and a bar flanker.  It was learned that Bartolome took the bar twice, after failing on her first attempt.

Bartolome is one of the committee members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan investigating the complaint against Patricio’s grandson who is the incumbent Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President of Pilar, Capiz. The complaint was signed by 22 out of 23 SK Chairmen of the said municipality. Judge Patricio stood as counsel for his grandson during the investigation.

But, many were shocked upon hearing Judge Patricio’s ungentlemanly behavior toward BM Bartolome, since the retired judge is known for his signature as a soft spoken fellow with a well refined comportment. His dignified conduct was a byword among his colleagues in the judiciary. His impartiality and outstanding performance also earned him respect.

The feat of retired Judge Patricio as an outstanding jury capped his accomplishments prior to his retirement in the judiciary. The rumors that he is gunning to run for mayor of Pilar in the 2013 elections will give him more harm than good. His below the belt comment against BM Bartolome shows that the retired Judge is now engaged with character assassination like what other politicians normally do. Wala na sya kinalis sa iban nga politiko!

If I am in the shoes of retired Judge Patricio, I would rather distance myself from the dirty culture of politics. In that way the people will remember him as a person who always observed proper decorum, worthy of respect and emulation, a true gentleman! Tama?

Secretary Rogelio Singson issued a memorandum to the regional director and district engineers of the Department of Public Works and Highways due to the various complaints reaching about the lack of transparency in the conduct of biddings in the said offices. Hala!

The adherence to R.A. 9184 according to Singson, must be properly observed. The policy is in line with the commitment of the government to promote good governance under the principle of transparency, accountability, equity, efficiency and economy in the procurement process.

Any member of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) and the head of the implementing office concerned once found violating unintentionally or otherwise will face administrative sanctions. If the preponderance of evidence against any personnel is strong and found guilty, it will be a ground for termination from service. Klaro?*