ILOILO – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has deferred its concurrence on the appointment of Atty. Henida Genise as the new Provincial Board secretary amid questions over compliance with the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) appointment ban.
During its session on June 10, the SP was expected to act on a June 2, 2025 letter from outgoing Vice Gov. Christine Garin requesting concurrence for Genise’s appointment. However, the confirmation was suspended after 4th District SP member Domingo Oso Jr. raised concerns over whether the appointment was granted an exemption from the Comelec’s election-related restrictions.
Oso clarified that he was not questioning Genise’s qualifications, noting her previous service in the local government of Miag-ao. Instead, he sought assurance that the appointment complied with the Comelec resolution prohibiting the appointment, suspension, or transfer of government employees from January 12 to June 11, 2025, in connection with the May 12 midterm elections.
His motion prompted extended debate, including objections from 1st District SP member Marcelo Valentine Serag. Ultimately, the SP agreed to suspend deliberation and continue the discussion in the next regular session.
Resource persons from the Comelec, Civil Service Commission (CSC), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will be invited to clarify the matter.
During a previous session, 1st District SP member Jo Ann Germinanda defended Genise’s appointment. She presented documents showing that Vice Governor Garin had secured a Comelec exemption for the designation of Genise, with a reply from Comelec Region 6 director Atty. Dennis Ausan dated March 25, 2025.
“The appointment of Atty. Genise, if I’m not mistaken, was on June 2, 2025, and here is the exemption letter from Comelec addressed to Vice Gov. Garin,” said Germinanda.
She also cited CSC guidance, stating that the power of appointment rests with the appointing authority — in this case, the vice governor — and is not subject to challenge unless there is a clear violation of the rules.
Germinanda maintained confidence in Genise’s capability, noting her nearly nine years of service in government./PN
