COUNCILOR Mark Macapagal of San Simon town, Pampanga has withdrawn his “yes” vote on two resolutions five days after they were approved.
The said resolutions, passed about two weeks ago and both certified as urgent by Mayor Abundio Punsalan, Jr., sought to convert parcels of land from agricultural to industrial and commercial.
Macapagal said he withdrew his affirmative vote due to the owner’s failure to submit documents required in applying for conversion.
“I initially voted ‘yes’ despite the incomplete requirements because they promised us to provide them soon after, but I haven’t seen any efforts from them since the resolutions were approved,” he said.
Macapagal disclosed that such an incident seemed to have become a pattern in the application of land conversion in the municipality.
He cited another resolution that was also passed despite incomplete documents which supposedly are vital for the passing of a resolution.
“We let the first one go in good faith and trust with our fellow councilors but we cannot let this be the norm in our passing of resolutions and ordinances,” he said.
Macapagal, however, clarified politics was not involved in his decision to change his vote. He said he is only standing up for the credibility of the local council, as well as look after the welfare of the municipality.
Withdrawal invalid
Councilor Dading Santos, who sponsored the two resolutions, said that Macapagal’s withdrawal is not permissible under the local government code.
He said a change of decision can only be honored before the resolution or ordinances are officially passed.
“He should’ve thought firmly of his decision before voting because after gavel is banged, we cannot do anything more,” Santos said.
He also said such a resolution would benefit Simonians as it will further spur development in the town, especially in barangays where they are located.
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