Toledo City Government Denies Office Lockdown, Explains Security Protocols
The Toledo City Government has firmly denied allegations that Mayor Marjorie Perales ordered the padlocking of the City Treasurer's Office to block Jun Rivera from entering. In an official statement released on Thursday, January 29, 2026, city authorities clarified that no such incident occurred and emphasized that the office has remained fully operational for legitimate public transactions throughout the period in question.
Access Controls Implemented for Order and Security
City Legal Officer Atty. Hazan Bargamento explained that temporary access restrictions were put in place solely to maintain orderly operations and prevent disruptions. This action followed an incident on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, when Rivera arrived at the Treasurer's Office accompanied by individuals he introduced as his "bodyguards" and "supporters." According to Bargamento, none of these individuals had any valid transactions to conduct with the office.
Bargamento detailed that Rivera and his group entered the premises, took videos and photos inside the office, and lingered despite having no official business to attend to. Early on Thursday, the group was again denied entry after failing to present any legitimate reason for their visit. The City Legal Officer stressed that while government spaces are public, the local government has a duty to regulate access to ensure smooth operations and prioritize residents with actual transactions.
Pending Cases and Legal Position on Rivera's Claim
Addressing Rivera's public assertion that he possesses "papers" authorizing him to assume the City Treasurer post, the Toledo City Government reiterated its stance. This position is backed by a resolution approved by the Toledo City Council, which states that Rivera will not be accepted due to several pending administrative and criminal cases before the Office of the Ombudsman. These cases include allegations of malversation and serious dishonesty.
The City Government has filed an appeal with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) regarding this matter. Authorities maintain that the CSC decision cited by Rivera is not yet final and executory, thereby not granting him the right to assume office. Furthermore, Bargamento referenced a January 13, 2026 letter in which Rivera allegedly consented to hold office at the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) Regional Office, indicating his willingness to be transferred.
Request for New Treasurer to Ensure Fiscal Stability
In light of these developments, the Toledo City Government has formally written to the Department of Finance and the BLGF. The request seeks the designation of a new city treasurer to prevent any potential disruptions in Toledo City's fiscal operations. Bargamento emphasized that given Rivera's pending cases and his apparent consent to relocation, there should be no obstacle to appointing a replacement.
"Based on our premise that Mr. Rivera is facing several administrative and criminal cases, and that he has also given his consent to be transferred to Region 7, there is no longer any hindrance for the BLGF to appoint a new city treasurer here," Bargamento stated, underscoring the city's commitment to maintaining transparent and efficient governance.
