The mayor of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte has returned to office after serving a 90-day preventive suspension for alleged grave abuse of authority and grave misconduct.

Mayor Rommel Arnado returned to work on April 3, 2025. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) ordered a 90-day preventive suspension against him on January 3, 2025.

The case stemmed from the complaint filed by the chairwoman of Barangay Bagumbayan who Arnado suspended for allegedly interfering in the operation of the water system in the barangay.

The chairwoman claimed that the suspension was implemented without due process, which was why she filed a complaint before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Upon returning to office, Arnado claimed that some of his things and properties of the municipal government have gone missing.

Arnado is considering filing a complaint against then-acting mayor Aga Dimakuta.

“Kana ila gibuhat sa ako opisina, that is disrespect not only to me but the entire Kauswagan nga gipangtangtang ang tulo nalang kabuok karon and that is disrespectful to the entire municipality,” Arnado said.

Dimakuta, on the other hand, said he never entered the mayor’s Office.

“Puro bali ang gipang-istorya, ang mayor’s office nag respeto ko. Wala gyud ko mosulod diha, wala gyud na maablihi ang mga tawo diha nga niadto, iyaha ng mga tawo, sa pagawas nila wala na masirado,” Dimakuta said.

Repair works are also ongoing at the mayor’s office.

Arnado is running for vice mayor while Dimakuta is seeking the mayoral seat in the 2025 midterm elections.