Lanao governor back in office after suspension

Marawi City – Supporters of Governor Aleem Bashier Manalao on Tuesday trooped to the Lanao provincial capitol to welcome the governor back after his suspension from office. The ombudsman cleared Manalao and four his provincial officials from administrative and criminal charges for lack of probable cause. Manalao in his message during the flag ceremony thanked the military, religious sectors, provincial officials and employees and the people for their trust and confidence despite challenges in his administration. "While it [suspension] caused inconveniences and disruptions in the programs and activities of the province I find comfort in the people who continuously believe and trust in my leadeship",Manalao said. Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez dropped the charges against Manalao and four officials on March 13,2006. Other provincial officials whose charges were dismissed are Macalangcom Caris, Mohmina Manalao-Caris, Atty. Macacuna Moslem, and Provincial Treasurer Sambitory Pundugar. The court also found Manalao not liable for nepotism in hiring his sister and brother-in-law because the position they occupied were confidential. "RA 7160, or the Local Government Code does not prohibit the hiring of relatives to occupy confidential positions". In the procurement of mobile police vehicles, the court also said that the money used was taken from the 2004 capital outlay. "Gov. Manalao's suspension and a recall petition initiated by some municipal mayors disrupted provincial projects and programs" Provincial Information Officer Sansaroding Sansarona said. Last Friday, the camp of acting Governor Monera Macabangon reportedly left for Manila to seek a temporary restraining order from the office of the Ombudsman. –GMANews.TV