ACCUSATIONS of fund misuse have intensified tensions between Cagayan de Oro 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan and Barangay Carmen Chair Raineir Joaquin ‘Kapkip’ Uy amid allegations of political maneuvering and election code violations.
The controversy began when Suan questioned a surge in voter registrations in Barangay Carmen, a move perceived by many as targeting Uy.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has since filed a disqualification case against Uy, who is running for a seat in the House of Representatives, alleging improper issuance of barangay residency certificates.
Uy defended his actions, asserting adherence to legal procedures and urging newly registered voters to confirm their decisions were voluntary.
“Participation in democracy is vital,” Uy said.
At an earlier event, during Klarex Nga Serbisyo sa Baryo (KSB) in Barangay Bayanga, village chair Felipe Baang accused Suan of misusing funds, particularly the over one hundred million pesos allocated for the Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFFF) program, claiming that the money was diverted to benefit Suan's political allies instead of those in need, such as farmers and fisherfolk.
"Many farmers in our barangay Bayanga have complained that they haven't received that help given to Rep. Suan from the national government," Baang said.
Baang also called on Suan to explain to the people of Cagayan de Oro's first district, particularly in his barangay, why only his allies received PAFFF funding, including the TUPAD and AKAP funds.
Baang and the residents further urged Suan to clarify the reported allegations of misusing hundreds of millions in relief funds intended for El Niño assistance, following a visit from President Ferdinand "Bong-bong" Marcos three months ago.
“Farmers in our barangay have not received the assistance they’re entitled to,” Baang said.
Baang added that only a small number of residents in his barangay received the PAFF funds, with the majority going to Suan's allies and supporters.
Adding to the controversy, Suan’s recent ‘Suan4All’ initiative sparked outrage after participants were reportedly asked to surrender their phones, raising questions about transparency. Oppositionists claim the event and Suan’s Akap Pre-Validation Program are politically motivated and prioritize supporters over genuine beneficiaries.
READ RELATED NEWS:
- Group slams Comelec official’s remarks on voter surge in Carmen
- Carmen residents rally behind Kikang Amid Voter Registration Controversy
- Oro village chair faces DQ over voter surge
- Comelec files DQ case vs Kikang
Meanwhile, residents of Barangay Carmen have rallied behind Uy, condemning what they view as Suan’s abuse of power to undermine a political opponent.
Uy remains confident he will receive a fair hearing in the Comelec case, emphasizing his commitment to voter empowerment and integrity.
As the allegations continue to mount, calls for transparency and accountability from Suan grow louder, with constituents demanding answers about the handling of public funds intended for El Niño relief and other programs.
Observers warn that the conflict could further erode public trust, underscoring the need for clean and fair elections.
