by Rene V. Carbayas
ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Dec 29 (PIA) – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman promised reform and a new brand of leadership in the autonomous regional government as he highlighted his plan to launch a crackdown on corruption and introduce real transparency in the region.
Hataman addressed for the first time the employees at ARMM’s regional seat in Cotabato City on Monday as he set down the tone of leadership he vowed to introduce.
The Bureau of Public Information reveals that Hataman promised to lead as a public servant with the region’s constituents as his boss, follow-on to President Aquino’s catch phrase.
He guaranteed that there will be changes on how official transactions are handled in the regional government to ensure transparency and accountability.
Hataman was dauntless and said his administration will go after erring public officials in the region. “Walang palakasan, walang pakiusapan,” (No influence peddling, no favors), he said in a short speech that was overwhelmingly applauded.
He directed ordinary employees not to aid anyone especially their superiors in anomalous actions. “Huwag kayo pagamit,” (Don’t allow yourself to be used.), he told the employees, assuring them of his backing.
To underscore his call, the OIC governor gave out his cellular phone number so that every employee will have a direct line to him.
He urged them to report all forms of wrongdoings as well as suggested means to enhance governance in the ARMM.
The present ARMM chief appealed to the region’s employees and bureaucrats to support the reform he wished introduced.
“Hindi magtatagumpay ang reporma kung wala kayo,” (The reform that we want will not materialize without your involvement.), he said.
The former Anak Mindanao partylist congressman was appointed by President Benigno Aquino III (PNoy) as the officer-in-charge (OIC) governor of the ARMM along with Bainon Karon as the OIC vice-governor and officially assumed office on December 22. (BPIARMM/RVC-PIA9 ZBST)