The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered a six-month preventive suspension against Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia in connection with a complaint alleging multiple violations.
The complaint, filed by Moises Garcia Deiparine, accuses the governor of grave abuse of authority, gross misconduct, serious dishonesty, gross negligence, conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, and violating Republic Act No. 6713.
According to the complaint, Garcia allegedly issued a special permit to a major construction firm on May 14, 2024, without securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) or a Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The permit was reportedly issued without consulting relevant government agencies.
In an official statement, Garcia said she respects the legal process but disagrees with the basis and necessity of the suspension. She claimed the permit was a result of close collaboration with affected local government units and national agencies such as DENR, EMB, and MGB, aimed at addressing the water shortage in Metro Cebu, including Cebu City and seven other LGUs.
She also said the Provincial Board approved the permit issuance and alleged that the complainant is affiliated with partisan political groups and is a founder of the Duterte Riders Team.
Garcia further argued that the suspension is illegal, citing Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits such actions during the official election period, running from January 12 to June 11, 2025.
