Can-avid Municipal Accountant Faces Petition Over Alleged Neglect of Duty

CAN-AVID, Eastern Samar — The employees of LGU Can-avid have formally petitioned against Municipal Accountant Celestino Cabañero, alleging that his frequent absences and neglect of official duties have adversely affected municipal operations and caused delays in financial transactions.

The petition was submitted through the Office of the Municipal Mayor on December 23, 2025. The complainants claim that Cabañero has been regularly absent from work and has not followed the required eight-hour workday for government employees.

Similar complaints against the municipal accountant were reportedly made during previous administrations, as stated by LGU employees in the petition.

They argue that his alleged absences have disrupted municipal operations and hindered the delivery of public services.

The petition outlines various infractions that are punishable under Civil Service Commission (CSC) rules and regulations, such as negligence of duty and behavior detrimental to the service’s best interests.

Specific accusations listed in the petition include delays in signing checks and other financial documents, resulting in late payments of salaries and invoices to suppliers and contractors.

The alleged absenteeism also affected residents who depend on timely government services, causing disruptions in the operations of other municipal offices.

Additionally, the complainants claim that Cabañero, at times, demanded personal inspections before authorizing vouchers, which impeded the functions of other offices responsible for those tasks.

As of this writing, there has been no official response from Cabañero included in the petition. The matter has been elevated to the Office of the Mayor for appropriate action and potential referral to relevant oversight agencies, including the Civil Service Commission.

The LGU has not yet issued a statement regarding the next steps in addressing the petition.