BACOLOD City – The Department of Interior and Local Government in Negros Occidental (DILG-NegOcc) urged the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Talisay City to resolve the issues surrounding its two council members after they nearly came to blows during a regular session.
The conflict between Councilors Rolin Meliton and Randy Ereñeta stemmed from the city government’s housing program.
In a radio interview, DILG-NegOcc Cluster Head 2 Jean Quistadio said they have not yet received any complaints either from Meliton or Ereñeta, although they already got the initial incident report.
Quistadio pointed out that the involved councilors should forward their concerns to a proper court, adding that the agency lacks jurisdiction in legal matters.
Meanwhile, Meliton has broken his silence over the incident, stating that there was no malice intended and he has no ill feelings towards Ereñeta, whom he considers a close friend.
Meliton further expressed that they both serve the people of Talisay and understood the emotions felt by Ereñeta.
Earlier on Monday, Meliton delivered his privilege speech regarding the city government’s housing program, wherein he raised several concerns.
During the speech, Meliton reportedly directed his remarks to Ereñeta, who chairs the city’s housing committee, when a heated argument ensued.
Talisay Vice Mayor Nic Jalandoni broke the exchange by calling for a recess. Other council members also intervened and suggested giving both parties time to cool down. (Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
