ILIGAN City ― The municipality of Kauswagan has appointed First Councilor Aga Dimakuta as acting mayor following a suspension order against elected Mayor Rommel Arnado and other town officials for grave abuse of authority and misconduct.
The suspension, issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Lanao del Norte, stems from a complaint filed by the barangay chair of Bagumbayan, who alleged that Arnado suspended her without due process.
The provincial board’s decision was signed by Governor Imelda Quibranza Dimaporo after its December 2024 session.
Dimakuta began his duties as acting mayor on Jan. 8, with the suspension order set to last 90 days.
Vice Mayor Dr. Maximo Arnado and seven other municipal councilors were also suspended, leaving only two remaining members of the town’s Sangguniang Bayan.
In a statement posted on the wall of the municipal mayor’s office, Dimakuta announced his assumption of office. He told reporters that he plans to continue Mayor Arnado’s ongoing projects during his tenure.
“At the moment, I am seeking guidance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the provincial governor regarding how to proceed with my duties,” Dimakuta said.
The suspension order came after Mayor Arnado accused the Bagumbayan barangay chair of interfering with the town’s water delivery operations, which led to her suspension.
Arnado filed a motion for reconsideration with the provincial board, but the request was denied.
Dimakuta’s appointment aims to ensure the continuity of local governance despite the temporary absence of the town’s key officials.
