IN an effort to maintain a smooth investigation and avoid delays, Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) Interim General Manager (IGM) Fermin Jarales has issued a memorandum instructing former General Manager Engr. Antonio Young to work from home.
This directive comes as Jarales and the Interim Board of Directors (BOD) of COWD face significant resistance from Young, who has actively defied the new leadership since the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) appointed Jarales on May 29, 2024.
Jarales, in a detailed memorandum dated June 25, 2024, outlined the series of actions taken by Young that have disrupted the transition and hindered the investigation.
Young held an unauthorized press conference on May 30, 2024, where he declared the LWUA’s intervention as "ultra vires" (beyond legal authority).
Furthermore, Young, along with Nelia B. Lee, Gerry J. Cano, and Janet C. Matus, filed a Status Quo Ante Order against LWUA on June 11, 2024, which was subsequently denied by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 38, on June 13, 2024.
Despite the court's decision, Young has continued to challenge the ruling by filing a Motion for Reconsideration.
Given these actions, Jarales has instructed Young to work from home effective immediately to prevent any further unauthorized activities within COWD premises.
Young’s tasks while working from home include studying LWUA’s powers under Presidential Decree No. 198 and Republic Act No. 11659, as well as understanding COWD’s obligations and the remedies available to LWUA under their Financial Assistance Contract.
Jarales emphasized the need for compliance and warned that any unauthorized move by Young would be met with more severe consequences.
Security personnel have been instructed to remove Young if he attempts to enter COWD premises without proper authorization.
The ongoing resistance from Young and his associates has complicated the efforts of Jarales and the Interim BOD to address the critical issues facing COWD.
These issues include ensuring an uninterrupted water supply for the people of Cagayan de Oro and promoting the viability of the water district.
Despite these challenges, Jarales expressed hope for unity and cooperation.
He reiterated his willingness to work together with Young and other COWD officers to achieve the directives of the President and LWUA.
Jarales believes that collaborative efforts are essential to resolving the pressing problems and improving the overall functionality of COWD.
The situation has garnered significant attention from both the public and local government officials, including the City Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy, who has called for unity in addressing the water district’s issues.
The Mayor’s call for solidarity underscores the importance of a stable and efficient water supply system for the city’s residents.
As the investigation and fact-finding measures continue, Jarales and the Interim BOD remain committed to their mission.
They are determined to implement necessary changes and ensure that COWD operates effectively and in the best interest of the community.
The resistance from the former GM and his associates is a significant hurdle, but Jarales remains optimistic.
He is focused on moving forward and making the necessary adjustments to improve COWD’s operations.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the LWUA’s intervention unfolds and the water district navigates through this period of transition.
According to Jarales the COWD is at a critical juncture. The leadership change and subsequent resistance highlight the complexities of managing public utilities and the importance of effective governance.
The community and stakeholders will be closely watching the developments, hoping for a resolution that ensures a reliable water supply and the overall betterment of COWD.
