FOR SIX MONTHS WITHOUT PAY Ombudsman suspends Gwen

Just weeks before the May 2025 elections, the Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the six-month preventive suspension without pay of Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia—an unexpected development stemming from an administrative complaint over a controversial permit issued last year.

- Kristin de Dios and Mitchelle Palaubsanon, Staff Members

Moises Garcia Deiparine, the complainant, filed cases against the governor for grave abuse of authority, gross misconduct, serious dishonesty, gross negligence, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and violation of Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The decision was signed by Ombudsman Samuel Martires on April 23, 2025.

The Freeman likewise verified the information through a Philippine Star reporter, who asked Ombudsman Martires through Viber if there was a suspension order against Garcia. Martires confirmed and replied with a "Yes." Further, Deiparine confirmed to The Freeman that he had indeed filed a complaint against the govemor on April 19, 2025.

In the complaint, Deiparine alleged that Governor Garcia issued Special Permit No. 2024-09 to Shalom Construction, Inc., represented by Anthony James Limchesing, on May 14, 2024, without an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

According to the complaint, the issuance of the special permit lacked a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Additionally, Deiparine alleged that the special permit was issued without prior study or consultation with other relevant government agencies.

"Wherefore, in consonance with Section 9 of Administrative Order No. 17, amending Rule III of Administrative Order No.