Cebu governor suspension case awaits Comelec orders
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is currently waiting for instructions from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) before taking any action on Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia’s suspension case. This development highlights the importance of securing Comelec approval for suspensions during election campaign periods.
During a press briefing in Quezon City last Friday, DILG Undersecretary for Public Affairs and Communications Rolando Puno explained the situation. He said the agency must first receive the green light from Comelec to implement the suspension of elected officials amid the campaign season.
Need for Comelec approval emphasized
“The DILG is still awaiting the reply of the Commission on Elections regarding a query that we sent in light of the Comelec pronouncement that suspension orders of elected officials during the campaign period must secure Comelec approval,” Puno stated.
He added, “The DILG is not delaying the matter. However, since the Comelec has declared that any suspension of an elected official during the campaign period requires their approval, we must wait for this before taking further steps.”
Details on Governor Garcia’s suspension case
Governor Gwen Garcia received a six-month suspension without pay from the Office of the Ombudsman due to allegations of grave abuse of authority. The charges stem from her issuance of a special permit to a construction company, which was allegedly done without a lawful basis.
The suspension order was formally served on April 28, 2025. Garcia, however, intends to contest the suspension.
Governor’s response and legal plans
The governor maintains that the special permit was issued to address a critical water shortage in the area. She expressed confidence that the truth will prevail through proper legal channels.
“My legal team is already taking the necessary steps to challenge this preventive suspension through the proper legal channels. I have full faith that truth and justice will prevail,” Garcia affirmed.