Recent developments in the Davao Region—from politics and policies to police reshuffling—have caught the attention not only of Davaoeños but also of Mindanaoans and even foreign observers.
MinDA Leadership Conflict
At the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), a turf war has erupted between newly appointed chairperson Leo Tereso A. Magno and his beleaguered predecessor, Maria Belen S. Acosta. This conflict took a legal turn last week when Acosta filed a quo warranto case before the Regional Trial Court in Davao City, seeking a ruling on the rightful occupant of the chair.
MinDA is a government agency tasked with promoting, coordinating, and facilitating the socio-economic development of Mindanao. Established to unify development efforts, the agency ensures that projects and initiatives align with the region’s overall growth. Its primary responsibilities include strategic planning, policy formulation, coordination, investment promotion, and program implementation.
The conflict centers around Acosta’s expectation to serve a six-year term as mandated by Republic Act 9996. However, Malacañang’s appointment of Magno, citing a loss of trust and confidence in Acosta, led to significant controversy. On Friday, Acosta filed a quo warranto case challenging Magno’s appointment, arguing that her removal violated the law, which guarantees a six-year term unless removed for cause.
Acosta contends that her removal was unwarranted, as she had no pending civil, administrative, or criminal cases, nor had she been convicted of any crime. While she questioned the legitimacy of Magno’s appointment on the 14th floor of Pryce Tower, Magno held an Executive and Management Committee meeting on the 10th floor, highlighting the ongoing power struggle.
During the transition, there was a period of dual command, leading to administrative confusion. Acosta held a press conference to assert her claim, while Magno conducted executive meetings. Speculations abound that this conflict might be part of a larger political strategy involving key figures influencing government appointments.
Police Reshuffling and Public Reaction
It was also on Friday that the Philippine National Police relieved about 40 officials and personnel of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO). Their removal was deemed necessary due to an ongoing investigation into the deaths of seven suspected drug pushers, which occurred the day after new City Police Director Richard Bad-ang was installed on March 22. Bad-ang was relieved a day before the mass relief.
The relief of DCPO officials has garnered mixed reactions from various sectors. Some view it as a necessary step towards accountability, especially given allegations of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. Families of those allegedly killed in controversial police operations have welcomed the move as a sign that the government is taking their grievances seriously.
However, political observers suggest that the relief of the police officials might be politically motivated, possibly part of a power struggle between factions loyal to former President Rodrigo Duterte and current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Skeptics worry that the relief might be a superficial measure to placate public outcry without addressing the root causes of corruption and abuse within the police force.
Local residents express concern that the mass relief might lead to instability and a temporary lapse in law enforcement effectiveness. They fear that the sudden changes could disrupt ongoing police operations and negatively impact public safety. The business community in Davao City is also apprehensive, as stability and security are crucial for economic activities. Any perception of turmoil within the police force could affect business confidence and operations.
The relief of DCPO officials reflects the complex interplay of justice, politics, and public safety concerns. While some view it as a positive step towards accountability, others fear it might lead to instability or be driven by political motives. The ultimate impact of this decision will depend on how the investigations are conducted and whether systemic reforms are implemented to address underlying issues within the police force.
