Allies defend San Lorenzo chair

WE, CONCERNED residents of Barangay San Lorenzo, would like to correct erroneous claims in Rina Jimenez-David’s Oct. 8 column.

On the allegation that Barangay Chair ErnestoMoya refused to turn over the post of barangay chair to Joshua John Santiago, may we clarify that Santiago reassumed the position soon after the decision of the Department of Interior and Local Government reinstating him upon the expiration of his suspension. Ernesto Moya, who took over the post upon Santiago’s suspension, did not in any way impede Santiago from reassuming as barangay chair.

It should be noted, however, that in the order of the Office of the President to reinstate Santiago, he was not cleared of the corruption charges against him. In fact, he was found guilty of malfeasance.

On the realignment of territorial boundaries of Barangay San Lorenzo and Barangay Pio del Pilar, this was a decision made by the Makati City council in a duly approved resolution. Themajority of the residents of both barangays ratified it in a referendum. Thus, to claim that thiswas “underhanded political tactics” is unfair to the residents.

Moya beat Santiago handily in the barangay elections of 2010. He has since served with distinction and integrity. We are committed to support him for we see in him an admirable, competent and dedicated public servant with a strong sense of duty to improve the lives of all the residents of Barangay San Lorenzo.