CEBU CITY – Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes has expressed deep concern over the one-year suspension slapped against him by the Office of the Ombudsman.

In a statement, Cortes said the Ombudsman’s decision to suspend him without pay stemming from an administrative case “is a matter of deep concern.”

“This is not just a difficult personal moment for me but a challenge that touches everyone who has dedicated themselves to serving the city,” said Cortes who received the suspension order on Wednesday, August 22.

Sereno Gabayan Monsanto, Rosimay Cali Caling, and Annabel dela Cerna Andebor filed the complaint against Cortes and Camilo Basaca who was appointed as officer-in-charge of the City Social Welfare Services Office (CSWSO).

The complainants said that the designation of Basaca violated Section 483 of Republic Act No. 7160 (Local Government Code of 1991). They said Basaca does not possess the required eligibility and qualifications for the position as he is not a duly licensed social worker and has not acquired experience in the practice of social work for at least five years.

While the Ombudsman cleared Basaca from the charges, it found Cortes guilty of grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

Cortes insisted there was nothing irregular with the appointment of Basaca.

“My decision to designate Mr. Basaca was rooted in a commitment to enhance the services of CSWS. His extensive experience and unwavering dedication were seen as vital to our mission of serving the people of Mandaue. Every decision I make is grounded in what will best serve our community and this was no exception,” Cortes said.

Cortes said that despite the suspension, he will remain “resolute in my dedication to Mandaue and its people.”

“We will pursue all legal avenues available to contest this decision, ensuring that our commitment to service remains strong and unbroken,” Cortes said.