CEBU CITY – The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended Mayor Michael Rama here and seven City Hall officials for six months.
Rama’s suspension stemmed from a case filed by city government workers who complained that they were not paid for at least 10 months.
Also suspended were City Administrator Collin Rosell, his wife Dr. Maria Theresa Rosell, head of the City Assessor’s Office; Assistant Department Head and Legal Officer Francis May Jacaban, Assistant Department Head for Operations Angelique Cabugao, Administration Division Head Jay-Ar Pescante, Assessment Records Management Division head Lester Joey Beniga, and Computer Division head Nelyn Sanrojo.
In a 10-page resolution dated May 2, Ombudsman Samuel Martires ruled that there were sufficient grounds to impose a preventive suspension against Rama and the seven city hall officials.
“In accordance with Section 27 of Republic Act No. 6770, this Order is immediately executory. Notwithstanding any motion, appeal, or petition that may be filed by respondents seeking relief from this Order, unless otherwise ordered by this Office or any court of competent jurisdiction, the implementation of this Order shall not be interrupted within the period prescribed,” Martires said.
Four regular employees of the City Hall filed a complaint against the officials for alleged grave misconduct, conduct unbecoming of a public officer, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, grave abuse of authority, and violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
The employees with Salary Grade of 11 to 18 filed the complaint after they were removed from their posts and were reassigned to other departments.
The complainants alleged that they were not paid with their salary from July 2023 to January this year.
Rama refused to comment on the suspension, saying he has yet to receive a copy of the order.