Abra official’s suspension final

BAGUIO CITY — Malacañang’s Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs (DESLA), Anna Liza G. Logan, declared the suspension of Abra Vice-Governor Joy Valera-Bernos as final and executory.

Ms. Logan in an order released Sept. 23, said there was no Motion for Reconsideration filed before them as of Sept. 13, in connection with the suspension slapped against Valera-Bernos.

The decision by the Office of the Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin was promulgated by the DESLA on Aug. 12, 2024.

Ms. Valera-Bernos was suspended for 18 months after she was found guilty of oppression and abuse of authority, conduct unbecoming of a public official, and disobedience to national government policies after she locked down the Dr. Petronillo Seares, Sr. Memorial Hospital in Bangued due to a June 2020 Covid case. 

Ms. Valera-Bernos obtained a Temporary Restraining Order on Sept. 13, which lapsed on Sept. 23.

Ms. Logan said in the order that no appeal was filed with the Court of Appeals, contradicting Ms. Valera-Bernos’ suspension as of Sept. 17, declaring the order, dated Aug. 12, “Final and Executory.” — Artemio A. Dumlao