Minglanilla's Entire Leadership Suspended for One Year by Ombudsman
Published on: February 4, 2026, 12:34 pm
In a landmark decision, the Office of the Ombudsman has removed the top leadership of Minglanilla from office, citing selective implementation of the rule. Effective February 2, 2026, the town's mayor, vice mayor, and the entire Municipal Council are suspended without pay for a duration of one year.
This ruling stems from a prolonged legal dispute involving two companies, Jomara Konstruckt Corporation (JKCO) and Jomara Agri Foods and Supply Corporation (JAFSC). The officials were found guilty of oppression and grave abuse of authority for obstructing business permits and safety plans that had already received approval from national experts.
Who is Suspended?
The suspension impacts nearly every elected official in Minglanilla, creating an unprecedented governance crisis. The list includes:
- Mayor: Rajiv Enad
- Vice Mayor: Elanito Peña
- Municipal Administrator: Junrie Bragat
- Entire Council: All 10 council members, such as Oscar Dela Calzada Jr. and Samuel Adlawan Jr.
The Problem: Science Versus Politics
The controversy began in 2022 when ground cracks were discovered in Barangay Guindarohan. In response, the affected company submitted a comprehensive rehabilitation plan aimed at repairing slopes and enhancing drainage systems.
While national agencies, including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), endorsed the plan as safe and urged its immediate implementation, the local government refused to issue the necessary permits. The Ombudsman's investigation revealed a pattern of selective enforcement, noting that while Jomara was blocked, two other farms in the same high-risk area were allowed to continue operations, despite being flagged for unsafe practices.
Implications for Minglanilla
This mass suspension has created a governance vacuum in Minglanilla, effectively freezing the town's legislative branch. Key consequences include:
- No New Laws: The inability to pass new local ordinances or approve budgets.
- Service Delays: Potential stalls in social services and government projects due to lack of leadership approvals.
- Business Impact: A clear message that local officials cannot arbitrarily block businesses that meet national safety standards.
Who is in Charge Now?
Minglanilla is currently in a transitional phase. Lheslen Enad, the mayor's wife, has assumed the role of Acting Mayor, with Mulot Laput serving as Acting Vice Mayor. However, the vacant council seats cannot be filled immediately.
Since the suspended officials are members of the Nacionalista Party (NP), the party must nominate replacements, who then require approval from the national government. Mayor Enad has announced plans to challenge the suspension through legal appeals, but for now, the town must navigate this period with a temporary administration in place.
