Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson has placed two provincial government engineers who were former heads of the Silay Oxygen Plant at the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital compound under 60-day preventive suspensions without pay.
They are facing formal charges for misconduct, gross neglect of duty, serious dishonesty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service for the alleged mismanagement of the oxygen plant.
Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas Jr. said that during routine inspections conducted it was discovered that there were accessories, ancillary components and medical equipment that were missing and unaccounted that is why the plant’s performance was not up to par.
Inspections revealed an alarming deterioration of the plant’s essential machinery under their respective watches, the charges said.
They allegedly facilitated the processing and approval of multiple government disbursement vouchers for “preventive maintenance” services that physical verifications confirmed were never actually rendered.
Further investigation noted that processing payments for fictitious services reflects a willful and flagrant disregard for procurement laws, established auditing rules, and the proper handling of public funds.
Their suspensions started on May 14.
Nellas said the province is waiting for their response on whether they will choose formal hearings or submit position papers.
The two engineers could not be reached for comment.*
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