PEZA clarifies usurpation complaint filed against OIC

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Amid a usurpation complaint filed against Philippine Economic Zone Authority’s (PEZA) officer-in-charge Tereso Panga, the government investments incentive-giving body defended the agency’s top leader. 

In a statement released by PEZA earlier this week, the agency said that administrative matters such as designation, transfers, and renewal of employment contracts were implemented properly under the supervision of a technical working group.

PEZA also denied that there is a leadership row within the agency. It however said that there is an “unjustified refusal of a former appointive official to step down from office.” 

The statement further explained that the position was clearly co-terminus with the appointing authority. 

“The PEZA MANCOM, its employees and ecozone stakeholders fully support the OIC to lead PEZA. The OIC, as he has said time and again, is ready to step down as OIC when President Marcos, Jr. appoints a Director General of PEZA,” the agency added.

Recently, four PEZA employees filed a complaint against Panga alleging that he ordered the non-renewal of their contracts and assignment to far-flung office branches. The employees claim that these came after Panga accused them of allegiance to former PEZA director general Charito Plaza.