Officials designated as officer in charge (OIC) enjoy limited powers, which are confined to functions of administration and ensuring that the office continues its usual activities. The OIC may not be deemed to possess the power to appoint employees as the same involves the exercise of discretion, which is beyond the power of an OIC, unless the designation order issued by the proper appointing officer or authority expressly includes the power to issue an appointment.

From December 2022 to date, nine months have passed, and no one, whether from the national or BARMM, has decided to resolve the matter with the people in mind. The impasse has affected the morale of employees in the new province and has affected service delivery. The Supreme Court has decided clearly under GR 265373, released Aug. 3, 2023.

On Sept. 16, 2023, Macacua issued an unsigned official statement calling for “unity, cooperation and respect” regarding the division of Datu Odin Sinsuat, a second-class municipality and the capital of Maguindanao Norte. Can an OIC carry out this plan?

Inaction or non-action in governance can have various consequences, both positive and negative, depending on the context and the specific decisions involved. Some effects to consider are stagnation, loss of trust, escalation of problems, missed opportunities, social unrest, policy gridlock, economic consequences, environmental impact, public health risks and reputation on the global stage.

It is important to note that the consequences of inaction or non-action in governance can vary widely depending on the specific context and the nature of the decisions being made. Effective governance often requires a balance between taking action when needed and ensuring that those actions are well considered and in the best interests of the citizens. Truly, “making decisions is probably the most important thing people ever do. Nothing happens until someone makes a decision.”