Ilonggo historian and heritage advocate Nereo Lujan has filed on Thursday an administrative case against Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas with the Office of the Ombudsman in Visayas. Lujan accused Treñas of grave misconduct, abuse of authority, conduct unbecoming, and acts prejudicial to the interest of public service. The controversy stemmed from the Iloilo City Government’s decision to demolish the facade of the Iloilo Central Market, a structure considered a cultural heritage site.
The historic Art Deco facade, which has stood for over 50 years since its construction during the American period, was an iconic landmark in Iloilo City. He cited the necessity of securing proper permits from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines before any demolition order of heritage sites can proceed., Treñas committed the alleged misconduct and abuse of authority while performing his official duties.
Treñas has previously presented a letter from his office claiming support from the NHCP for the demolition. However, no letter of no objection from the NHCP has been shown.