Ombudsman orders dismissal of Eastern Samar mayor, 2 others

MANILA, Philippines – Citing “glaring” evidence, the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of 3 Eastern Samar officials, including Lawaan Mayor Candida Gabornes for the alleged use of public funds to maintain and repair the mayor’s private vehicle.

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales also said in a statement on Wednesday, March 19, that she has ordered the filing of graft and malversation charges against Gabornes, Municipal Accountant Pedro Gabornes and Municipal Treasurer Ruben Baet.

The office said in a statement that the 3 officials were dismissed from the service for grave misconduct based on an administrative case against them for the “illegal release of public funds” for the mayor’s Mitsubishi Montero.

An investigation conducted by the Ombudsman showed that in 2012, P41,801.14 in public money was spent on the emergency purchase of spare parts and tires for the mayor’s Mitsubishi Montero.

“Pieces of evidence on record glaringly show how [they] acted in concert to facilitate the illegal release of public funds,” the Joint Resolution stated.

Dismissal from service carries the accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification from public office, and bar from taking civil service examinations.

Morales also directed the filing with the Sandiganbayan information for 2 counts of malversation through falsification of public documents and 2 counts of violation of Republic Act No 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, against the 3 officials.

“As high-ranking responsible officers they ought to know and as a matter of fact are presumed to know the applicable law, rules and regulations pertinent to the discharge of their respective official duties and responsibilities,” Morales said. – Rappler.com