DOJ opinion should not be questioned - Cabanlas

"WE must remember that the lawyer of LWUA is the DOJ (Department of Justice), also the lawyer of all government agencies. So, it’s your counsel now telling you to abide by that information or opinion for your guidance. If you question that, you’re questioning your lawyer. It’s a very simple explanation. Once the DOJ speaks, you cannot get another lawyer and hire another private lawyer to question the opinion of the DOJ.”

This was emphasized by Councilor Edgar S. Cabanlas during the regular session Monday, in reaction to the proposal of Councilor James K. Judith II to file a resolution requesting LWUA to comply with the DOJ’s legal opinion concerning its takeover of the COWD.

He stressed the importance of adhering to the legal opinions issued by the DOJ as the legal counsel for all government agencies, including the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

The DOJ's opinion addresses the legality of appointing the interim board of directors and general manager to resolve internal management issues but have instead led to further internal conflict within the agency.

Judith pointed out that LWUA's takeover of COWD has no basis under PD 198, which does not mandate appointing an interim board and GM.

Councilor Ian Mark Q. Nacaya in his rejoinder suggested expressing the Council’s appreciation to the DOJ for rendering its opinion requested by the parties and requesting LWUA to construe the opinion in favor of the COWD Board and Management.