BACOLOD City – Public interest was jeopardized when the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) failed to transact any business in yesterday’s regular session, said Acting Vice Mayor Ricardo Tan.
Quorum was not reached as only six of the 15 SP members were present, Tan added.
“Wala quorum. Ang ginakulbaan ko natabo gid,” said Tan.
The session only lasted for 30 minutes – from 3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Among the present SP members were councilors Sonya Verdeflor, Wilson Gamboa Jr., Jesus Claudio Puentevella, and Ana Marie Palermo, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president Ayesha Villaflor.
Councilor Elmer Sy was on sick leave while Councilor Noli Villarosa was on vacation leave.
The seven other SP members – Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and councilors Caesar Distrito, Em Ang, Renecito Novero, Bartolome Orola, Cindy Rojas, and Dindo Ramos – were on a 16-day official trip to Long Beach City, California since July 19.
They will attend the Californian city’s version of MassKara Festival.
Tan said it was the first time this year that the SP has not reached quorum, which would probably happen again next week as Verdeflor is expected to file for an official leave.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, a quorum is required before the SP can transact official business./PN
