CNN Philippines (Metro Manila, December 31) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government said Thursday it has issued a show-cause order against Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon after receiving reports that he organized a Christmas party despite the ban on the mass gathering.
“We received reports that a Christmas party was organized by the mayor together with other government and barangay officials. Acting on these reports, the Secretary has directed the issuance of the SCO (show-cause order) for the mayor to explain if he should be administratively liable for violating health protocols,” DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said in a statement.
The DILG official assured that they will “accord Mayor Keon due process.”
But Malaya stressed that government officials must set an example and refrain from organizing mass gatherings in consideration of the current health crisis.
“If the public sees that our government officials themselves are not following the protocols, our campaign loses credibility,” he said.
He also said the mayor could have just sent gifts to the employees of the local government instead of holding a party for them.
“If we want to show our appreciation to people for a job well done, we can just send them gifts. No need to call for a mass gathering,” he added.
CNN Philippines has asked Keon for comment but has yet to receive a reply from him.
Earlier this month, other government officials have also been probed for possibly violating the minimum health protocols meant to contain the spread of COVID-19. Philippine National Police investigated Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque and Senator Manny Pacquiao after photos of them attending separate crowded events surfaced online. DILG has said its legal service was reviewing the findings of the PNP.
