Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has dismissed the former acting treasurer of Isabela, Negros Occidental, from the service for grave misconduct, serious dishonesty and malversation of public funds amounting to P6.4 million.
Nenette M. Escarda, cashier I of the Provincial Treasurer’s Office, was also perpetually disqualified from holding public office, barred from civil service examinations and her retirement benefits were forfeited in the decision dated Monday, May 8, Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas Jr. said Tuesday.
She was charged for the unauthorized removal of P2,600,000 in cash and P3,800,000 in checks totaling P6.4 million from the Municipal Treasurer’s Office of Isabela in January, which she claimed was then stolen from her house.
The Commission on Audit also reported the following irregularities in the cash accountability of Escarda as acting treasurer of Isabela – collections totaling P6,629,146 remained undeposited as of Jan. 20, 2023, and cash advances of P972,000 were unliquidated as of cut-off date.
Escarda in answer to a show cause order admitted her negligence in bringing home the cash and checks, and “that such act is unacceptable and impermissible”, the decision said.
Her dishonest act caused serious damage and grave prejudice to the municipal government of Isabela, it added.
The investigation by the Provincial Legal Office was requested by Isabela Mayor Irene Montilla in a letter sent to the Office of the Governor on February 1.*