Ex-Zambo vice mayor faces falsification raps

MANILA, Philippines - For signing an illegal appointment paper, a former town vice mayor in Zamboanga del Norte is facing criminal charges before a Dipolog City court. 

In an 11-page decision, the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao approved the filing of falsification charges against former Sibuco town vice mayor Mansur Munding. 

Investigation showed that in September 2011, Munding certified the appointment paper of a certain Harveynee Caril for the position of administrative assistant.

The certification showed that Caril was screened and found qualified by the personnel selection board.

However, records from the municipality’s human resource management office showed that no such appointment was processed or recorded.

“There is no question on respondent’s authority to appoint employees. But what is irregular is the process and manner the appointment of Mr. Caril was done,” the ombudsman said.

Munding was also found guilty of dishonesty and grave misconduct and was dismissed from the service.

But considering that he is no longer in public service, the ombudsman said the penalty was converted to a fine equivalent to his salary for a year.