Village chief joins BOSS after threat of legal suits

By: Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Barangay Tangub here has joined the ongoing business one-stop shop (BOSS) at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) after being threatened with cases by City Hall officials.

Executive Assistant Sammy Montoyo on Monday confirmed that Barangay Tangub headed by Noli Villarosa already participated in the BOSS program.

Montoyo also confirmed that all barangays are all present at the BCGC.

Last week, Villarosa sent a letter to Leonardia stating they will not join the city’s Business One-Stop Shop due to the presence of several “illegal structure owners” that continue to obstruct roads within his jurisdiction.

But Villarosa later changed his mind and said they will join the event after City Hall threatened to sue him.

The BOSS, which provides a venue for the renewal of business permits and registration of new businesses, runs until January 20.

According to Assistant City Treasurer Arlene Memoria, the event opens from Monday to Friday, beginning at 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.; and on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

All government agencies, City Hall offices, along with barangays are expected to be on hand to process their respective documents.

When reached by the Daily Guardian here, Villarosa confirmed that Barangay Tangub participated in the BOSS.

“Yes kay gusto gid sang City nga ara ang Barangay Tangub para madasig ang process sang mga permits.” Vilarosa told DG here in a text message.

Bacolod City Legal Officer. Joselito Bayatan said Villarosa could have been sued for failure to follow the executive order issued by Mayor Evelio Leonardia.

The village chief can also be held liable for violating the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018.

“These two laws have their own built-in penalties,” Bayatan explained.

Aside from the two laws, Bayatan also said Villarosa could also face charges for violating provisions of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

“This should serve as a stern statement for barangay officials to really cooperate,” he added.