NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Ombudsman Fines Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia P30,000 For Ignoring Suspension Order
Photo credit: Gov. Gwen Garcia
The Office of the Ombudsman has found outgoing Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia guilty of indirect contempt for openly defying a preventive suspension order issued in April. As a result, she has been fined ₱30,000.
According to official documents, Garcia received the order on April 29, 2025, which called for her preventive suspension for up to six months while an administrative case against her is under adjudication. The order, dated April 23, was described as immediately executory—meaning it was to take effect right away, regardless of any appeal or motion.
Despite this, Garcia refused to vacate her post, continuing to act as governor even after the suspension had been served. The Ombudsman did not take the defiance lightly.
"You have willfully and openly refused to step down from your position as Governor," the order stated, stressing that the agency would no longer tolerate what it called an "affront" to its mandate to hold public officials accountable.
In response, the Ombudsman exercised its authority under the Rules of Court to impose a penalty for indirect contempt. The fine, which amounts to ₱30,000, is to be paid directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.
While Garcia is nearing the end of her term, this latest development adds to the legal and political challenges she faces as she prepares to exit office. It also underscores the growing tension between local officials and accountability institutions over compliance with disciplinary actions.
The governor has yet to issue a public statement in response to the ruling.
According to official documents, Garcia received the order on April 29, 2025, which called for her preventive suspension for up to six months while an administrative case against her is under adjudication. The order, dated April 23, was described as immediately executory—meaning it was to take effect right away, regardless of any appeal or motion.
Despite this, Garcia refused to vacate her post, continuing to act as governor even after the suspension had been served. The Ombudsman did not take the defiance lightly.
"You have willfully and openly refused to step down from your position as Governor," the order stated, stressing that the agency would no longer tolerate what it called an "affront" to its mandate to hold public officials accountable.
In response, the Ombudsman exercised its authority under the Rules of Court to impose a penalty for indirect contempt. The fine, which amounts to ₱30,000, is to be paid directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.
While Garcia is nearing the end of her term, this latest development adds to the legal and political challenges she faces as she prepares to exit office. It also underscores the growing tension between local officials and accountability institutions over compliance with disciplinary actions.
The governor has yet to issue a public statement in response to the ruling.
Jun 13, 2025
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