DILG Acknowledges Ombudsman Suspension of Marikina Mayor Over PhilHealth Funds

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The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially recognised the suspension of Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro and other officials following allegations of misallocating 130 million pesos in PhilHealth funds. The Office of the Ombudsman issued the preventive suspension order, dated March 21, after investigating complaints regarding misuse of funds intended for health improvements.

 

In a formal letter to Marikina City's local government, Atty. Romeo Benitez, DILG's legal and legislative affairs undersecretary, affirmed the suspension order, highlighting the importance of adhering to the prescribed administrative processes to maintain governance integrity.

 

The DILG is prepared to ensure succession procedures are followed as directed by Administrative Order No. 15 and DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2019-21, which allow the DILG chief to fill temporary vacancies in local government offices to prevent operational paralysis.

 

 

 

The suspension also extends to several city officials, including City Accountant Erlinda Gutierrez Gonzales, City Treasurer Nerissa Calvez San Miguel, and Assistant City Budget Officer Jason Rodriguez Nepomuceno. Sangguniang Panlungsod members, including Vice Mayor Marion S. Andres, along with several others, were also suspended.

 

The Ombudsman's decision stems from a complaint filed by Marikina resident Sofronio Dulay on May 15, 2024, accusing Teodoro and others of violating Article 220 of the Revised Penal Code and engaging in grave misconduct. Dulay's complaint specifically alleged the misuse of PhilHealth payments under the Universal Health Care Act.

 

As Marikina undergoes this transition, the DILG is committed to supporting the city, ensuring governance remains stable and lawful. The department recognizes the authority of the Acting Mayor and other designated officials to manage the city's affairs during this period, reported Inquirer.

 

-- 2025-03-26