The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) is moving to file graft and administrative complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against Sta. Maria, Bulacan Mayor Bartolome “Omeng” R. Ramos, accusing him of repeatedly failing to enforce a municipal ordinance that bans the use of induction furnaces in steelmaking due to environmental concerns.
In a complaint-affidavit, FPI Chairman Emeritus Dr. Jesus L. Arranza said the mayor’s alleged inaction may constitute violations of several laws, including provisions of the Local Government Code, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, among others. Arranza claimed the mayor has not taken the necessary executive and administrative steps to carry out Ordinance No. 704 and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR).
The ordinance was passed by the Sangguniang Bayan on Oct. 14, 2024 and calls for a strict ban on induction furnaces used in smelting metal scrap, while encouraging companies to upgrade to modern equipment aligned with environment-friendly steel production. It took effect in June 2025, and the ordinance’s six-month transition period ended in December 2025.
Arranza said that even after the compliance window lapsed, certain operators allegedly continued using induction furnaces. He cited Hightension Industrial Corporation, located at Lot 1-B, Road Lot 8, Delco Industrial Compound in Barangay Sta. Clara, as one of the firms that purportedly remains in violation.
According to Arranza, the alleged continued use of induction furnaces has been repeatedly raised with the local government, including through public appeals and rallies by cause-oriented groups calling for strict implementation of the ban. Despite this, he claimed the mayor’s office has not taken enforcement action, including the cancellation of permits that the ordinance authorizes as a penalty for violations.
FPI said the planned Ombudsman complaint will argue that the failure to implement the ordinance effectively grants unwarranted benefits to violators, while undermining a local policy intended to protect public welfare, environmental quality, and community safety.
