Ombudsman Holds Cebu Governor Accountable
The Office of the Ombudsman has found outgoing Cebu Governor Gwendolyn F. Garcia guilty of indirect contempt. She was ordered to pay a fine of ₱30,000 for defying the preventive suspension earlier imposed on her. This case highlights the importance of respecting the Ombudsman’s authority and following lawful orders.
The four-word keyphrase “defying preventive suspension order” is central to this situation. Garcia was suspended for six months due to her issuance of a quarry permit in a protected area back in 2024. Although she acknowledged the suspension, she expressed her disagreement, saying, “I respectfully disagree with both the basis and the necessity of this action.”
Conflict Between Garcia and Ombudsman
The suspension order sparked controversy, with Garcia accusing Ombudsman Samuel R. Martires of politicking, given his appointment by former President Rodrigo Duterte. This accusation prompted Martires to demand an apology. However, Martires has now taken a firmer stance, stating he will no longer tolerate any further disrespect toward the office’s mandate.
The nine-page order dated June 10 emphasized Garcia’s willful refusal to step down despite the immediately executory nature of the suspension. It described her actions as “a clear case of resistance and disobedience to the lawful processes of this Office.”
Undermining Justice and Authority
Moreover, the order criticized Garcia’s attitude as improper conduct that hinders the administration of justice. It stressed that this disciplinary action is meant not only to uphold the dignity of the Ombudsman’s office but also to warn others who might consider ignoring such orders.
Martires remarked that Garcia’s defiance has made her “an icon of defiance,” projecting the image of an ungovernable autocrat occupying the governor’s office. He hopes this case will serve as a stern warning to her lawyers and all officers of the court who have pledged to uphold the rule of law.
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