Bacolod City administrator suspended

CEBU, Philippines – The Office of the Ombudsman had ordered the suspension of Bacolod City administrator Rolando Villamor, who is now running for congressman of the city’s lone district.

Villamor, in an Ombudsman decision dated October 1, was found guilty of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service, resulting in his suspension without pay for six months and one day.

The decision said Villamor appeared as counsel for Galeno Construction Inc. in a civil case filed against the city government, a clear case of conflict of interest.

The decision also said that “by representing a party whose interest collides with that of his employer, the City of Bacolod, respondent (Villamor) invited suspicion of infidelity to either party. Respondent’s transgression erodes the public’s trust in government employees especially since he holds the esteemed position of city administrator.”

The decision further said: “Any act that falls short of the exacting standards for public office cannot be tolerated.”

On October 20, Mayor Monico Puentevella appointed General Services Office head Jerome Solinap as the concurrent acting city administrator after Villamor was "considered resigned," when he filed his certificate of candidacy for a congressional seat. (FREEMAN)