Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib expressed disappointment to Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation president Emerson Dave Silutan, who is mired in a controversial road accident that took place on March 21, 2023, for allegedly manipulating the ongoing investigation.
It can be recalled that Jubahib ordered a thorough investigation into the said incident, which caused serious damage to the Suaybaguio Riña Elementary School property in Magugpo North, Tagum City.
“It has come to my attention that Mr. Silutan appears to be attempting to obfuscate the truth and manipulate the ongoing investigation. This includes the deliberate concealment of crucial facts surrounding the incident, which not only undermines the integrity of the probe but also raises serious questions about the character and fitness of Mr. Silutan for public office,” Jubahib said in a statement shared with media on Friday.
Jubahib cited the blotter report obtained from Tagum City’s Civil Security Unit (CSU), which states that “Silutan was not alone during the accident and was accompanied by two male companions, James Sarucan and Patrick De Mabanding, both are Davao City residents.”
The report also states that Silutan, Sarucan, and De Mabanding were all under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
Jubahib also said that the CSU report further indicates that Sarucan, the alleged driver of the PLGU-owned vehicle, may have fallen asleep at the wheel, causing the crash into a school property.
“Furthermore, I find it extremely disheartening that Mr. Silutan has been actively posting “tweets” regarding the issue but has failed to address some critical questions about the incident. If Mr. Silutan can find the time to share his personal opinions on social media, he should certainly be capable of issuing a formal statement to apologize for the incident and clarify the situation,” he added.
The governor urged Silutan to issue a statement as a demonstration of accountability and professionalism by addressing the public’s concerns as the duly elected representative of the youth sector in the province.
“I also call on Mr. Silutan to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and to cease any attempts to “whitewash” the incident. Such behavior is unbecoming of a public servant, and it is a disservice to the people of Davao del Norte, who deserve transparency and honesty from their elected officials,” Jubahib said.
