NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Ombudsman Suspends San Simon Mayor Over Alleged Extortion Case
Abundio “Jun” Punsalan Jr
The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the six-month preventive suspension of San Simon, Pampanga Mayor Abundio “Jun” Punsalan Jr. in connection with an alleged extortion case involving a steel manufacturing firm.
According to the Ombudsman's order dated September 15, 2025, Punsalan faces administrative charges of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. The suspension is based on evidence suggesting that Punsalan demanded ₱125 million, later increased to ₱155 million, and subsequently reduced to ₱80 million, from RealSteel Corporation in exchange for protection and noninterference in its operations. The complaint was filed by RealSteel representatives Irwin H. Chua and Melodie E. Arellano, as well as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The Ombudsman stated that the evidence on record strongly establishes the guilt of Punsalan, and his continued stay in office may prejudice the fair and independent disposition of the case. As such, the preventive suspension is deemed proper under Section 24 of Republic Act No. 6770, or the Ombudsman Act of 1989.
The suspension will take effect immediately upon receipt of the order and will remain in force until the case is resolved, but will not exceed six months as provided by law. During this period, Vice Mayor Leonora Wong will assume the duties of acting mayor.
This development follows Punsalan's arrest on August 5, 2025, during an entrapment operation conducted by the NBI, where he was allegedly caught receiving ₱30 million in marked money. The operation was based on complaints from RealSteel Corporation, which accused Punsalan of demanding a total of ₱80 million in exchange for allowing the company to continue operations under the municipality’s tax incentive ordinance.
Punsalan pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment.
According to the Ombudsman's order dated September 15, 2025, Punsalan faces administrative charges of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. The suspension is based on evidence suggesting that Punsalan demanded ₱125 million, later increased to ₱155 million, and subsequently reduced to ₱80 million, from RealSteel Corporation in exchange for protection and noninterference in its operations. The complaint was filed by RealSteel representatives Irwin H. Chua and Melodie E. Arellano, as well as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The Ombudsman stated that the evidence on record strongly establishes the guilt of Punsalan, and his continued stay in office may prejudice the fair and independent disposition of the case. As such, the preventive suspension is deemed proper under Section 24 of Republic Act No. 6770, or the Ombudsman Act of 1989.
The suspension will take effect immediately upon receipt of the order and will remain in force until the case is resolved, but will not exceed six months as provided by law. During this period, Vice Mayor Leonora Wong will assume the duties of acting mayor.
This development follows Punsalan's arrest on August 5, 2025, during an entrapment operation conducted by the NBI, where he was allegedly caught receiving ₱30 million in marked money. The operation was based on complaints from RealSteel Corporation, which accused Punsalan of demanding a total of ₱80 million in exchange for allowing the company to continue operations under the municipality’s tax incentive ordinance.
Punsalan pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment.
Oct 6, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
