CORRUPTION, neglect of duty and abuse of authority of officials at the barangay level are three of the most common reasons why certain sectors pushed for the abolition of the October 29, 2007 barangay elections and the elimination of the Sangguniang Kabataan.

In Iloilo City alone, many cases filed against barangay officials relate to corruption and abuse of authority. One complaint over alleged abuse of authority was filed by a constituent of zone 2, Barangay Tacas in Jaro, Iloilo City against their kagawad whose gender is being questioned. This official allegedly constructed a store on a public domain damaging the place’s drainage system. Until now affected residents keep on asking why their complaint was not acted upon during the stint of former barangay captain Jimmy Locsin and his councilmen.

He, too, is the same barangay official who failed to perform his duty when his immediate assistance was needed to arrest a drunken man who fired his gun indiscriminately.

Wala mahuya ining “lousy” kagawad nga nagabaton honoraria. This kagawad was unable to do his duty at Zone 2, Tacas, Jaro.

Ginahimos na ang kaso for dereliction of duty against him. Hulata lang!

At present, residents in the community still have high hopes that the new barangay leaders like Joseph Poral can provide them with an inspired leadership.

Good luck, Kap!

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Most common complaint that usually gets into the media is about the issuance of a barangay certificate. Some punong barangays make it difficult for constituents who did not vote for them.

A barangay certificate is required by some private and government agencies when one is applying for a job. Barangay captains cannot refuse to issue this document without rhyme and reason.

We suggest to the DILG to conduct a thorough seminar for incompetent barangay officials.

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