Suspend Cebu airport exec, Tugade told

CEBU, Philippines — Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade has been asked by the Office of the Ombudsman to submit the status of the implementation of the preventive suspension order against Steve Dicdican, general manager of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA).

In a letter to Tugade, the ombudsman cited reports that Dicdican continues to report for work despite the suspension order.

Under the ombudsman’s rules on procedure, a compliance report must be submitted by the Department of Transportation within three days upon receipt of the suspension order.

Tugade’s office was furnished copies of the suspension order on Dec. 17.

Ombudsman Samuel Martires suspended Dicdican for six months pending an investigation of the charges filed against him by the National Bureau of Investigation for grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of service.

The case was based on a complaint filed by Larry Iguidez against Dicdican for allegedly collaborating with foreigners to manage and operate the airport.

Meanwhile, Dicdican said he remains the aiport general manager.

He said the ombudsman ”ought to know” that he could handle the emerging situation with the new coronavirus strain and change in travel and health protocols.

MCIAA assistant general manager Glenn Napuli said the suspension order has yet to be served. – Mitchelle Palaubsanon/The Freeman