LWUA told to implement Pichay’s dismissal

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Health has written the Local Water Utilities Administration to implement the Ombudsman’s dismissal order on LWUA chair Prospero Pichay, Malacañang announced on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Office of the Executive Secretary has formally informed the DOH of Pichay’s dismissal on grave misconduct raps in connection with the LWUA’s unauthorized investment in 2009 in troubled thrift bank Express Savings Bank, based in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The DOH was assigned jurisdiction over the LWUA during the Arroyo administration. It was previously under the Department of Public Works and Highways.

In an early afternoon news briefing, Valte said Pichay may appeal his dismissal by the Ombudsman but added that the sanction is immediately executory.