Kalibo, AKLAN – Supporters of beleaguered Jim Regno, former principal of Malinao Elementary School (MES), vowed not to recognize the revocation of his “transfer” by the Department of Education (DepEd) and will continue to protest Malinao Mayor Jojie Ilio’s “interference” of the school’s affairs.

The teachers, who requested anonymity, claimed DepEd Provincial Superintendent Dr. Victorina Laroza bowed to the pressure of Ilio to appoint Josephine Nabor instead as principal of MES. They claimed majority of the teachers do not recognize Nabor’s appointment.

They said Regno was “unceremoniously” stripped of his duties as MES principal after Ilio reportedly hauled the DepEd in various meetings in the provincial level with the backing of provincial officials.

They also accused Ilio of dipping his fingers into the internal affairs of the DepEd. They said Ilio’s action mocked DepEd’s policies.

They vowed to conduct more protest actions for the DepEd to review its decision.

They said they want to pursue justice in their protests actions in order for the issue to serve as precedence in the future.

Regno also refused to recognize Laroza’s order. He filed a protest at the DepEd’s Grievance Committee, saying the revocation of his position as principal of MES has “no grounds and illegal.”

He also continues to report as principal of MES.

This conflict at the MES started when Rosie Reyes, former principal of the school, was promoted as Ibajay District Supervisor.

Regno, with the backing of teachers, parents and District Supervisor Roselyn Dugcal, was designated principal of MES in addition to his duties as principal of the Liloan Elementary School.

After learning Regno’s appointment, Ilio wrote Laroza in protest, saying Nabor, principal of Bulabod Elementary School, is more fit for the job.

But the teachers argued that Ilio’s backing of Nabor is “baseless.” They said there is no truth to the mayor’s allegation that Nabor is more qualified that Regno.

They stressed that Regno’s designation was not an appointment since it was only an addition to his responsibilities.

They cited that under the Magna Carta for Teachers, revocation of appointment without factual basis is not allowed.

Regno was first designated by Laroza on June 30, 2009 as principal of MES. This was, however, revoked five months later. He was then designated as Education Supervisor I of the DepEd provincial office on top of his post as principal of the Liloan Elementary School.

Earlier, Ilio said Regno’s designation as MES principal is not a transfer but a promotion because he is now holding a position at the central school which is called “leader principal” despite no change in salary grade. This, he stressed, needs the nod of the Local School Board, which he heads.

He added that Regno’s appointment was “illegal” because no consultation was made prior to his appointment which is in violation of the provisions of the Local Government Code and Civil Service laws.