MANILA, Philippines– The Office of the Ombudsman has issued a six-month preventive suspension order against Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia in connection with a complaint regarding a special permit granted to Shalom Construction Inc. without the required environmental clearances.
Ombudsman Samuel Martires signed the order, which was confirmed on Tuesday as part of an ongoing administrative investigation.
The complaint alleges that Governor Garcia approved the special permit without securing necessary clearances from relevant environmental agencies.
The Office of the Ombudsman has stated that the investigation remains focused on the issuance process and compliance with regulatory standards.
Governor Garcia, who is seeking reelection, has announced her intention to contest the suspension. She cited the urgency of addressing a water shortage in Cebu as a key reason behind her decision to act on the permit.
The suspension comes just two weeks before the May 12 local elections, placing her political campaign under heightened scrutiny.
Despite the order, Garcia remains active in her role and continues to emphasize her commitment to resolving the region’s water issues.
The Office of the Ombudsman said the full details of the suspension order will be made public soon. Both the local government and the Ombudsman’s office are expected to issue further updates as proceedings continue.