Newly elected Representative Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles has questioned why her team was denied access to the congressional office previously used by former Rep. Loreto Acharon.
Bañas, who now represents General Santos City’s lone district, temporarily set up a tent at the Oval Plaza on July 2 to serve constituents. She said the move was necessary after being told the old congressional office was no longer available, as another department had already occupied it.
According to Bañas, a new office space has been assigned to her in a recently completed building, but the Department of Public Works and Highways is scheduled to turn it over on July 15.
While expressing understanding of the situation, Bañas questioned why newly elected officials are not automatically given access to the previous congressional office, especially while waiting for new space.
She said her team will wait until July 15, but if no office is turned over by then, they will consider other options.
On July 1, the congresswoman made a courtesy visit to Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao at City Hall.
Bañas’ decision to operate out of a tent has raised eyebrows locally, drawing attention to the lack of clear protocols regarding office transitions for incoming lawmakers.
