ILOILO – Zarraga’s Mayor Ma. Jofel Soldevilla has been found administratively liable by the Office of the Ombudsman and fined an amount equivalent to six months’ salary for violating the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act (Republic Act 11032), after she allegedly denied a contractor’s business permit renewal despite complete requirements.
The July 23 Ombudsman decision stemmed from a complaint filed by contractor Christopher Solas, who claimed he was unfairly barred from renewing his business permit even after submitting all necessary documents.
“The Office finds substantial evidence against respondent Ma. Jofel Marañon-Soldevilla for violation of RA 11032 and imposes upon her the penalty of a fine equivalent to her six (6) months’ basic salary, payable to the Office of the Ombudsman, with a stern warning that the commission of the same or similar malfeasance or nonfeasance in the future would be dealt with more severely,” the ruling stated.
While the decision stops short of suspending Soldevilla from her post, it was forwarded to the regional offices of the Commission on Audit (COA), Civil Service Commission (CSC), and Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Region 6 for information.
In an interview with Panay News, Soldevilla maintained that her actions were rooted in her duty to protect public interest.
“While I acknowledge the ruling, we must remain steadfast in our belief that our actions are ultimately for the general welfare of our constituents. Navigating these challenges is part of the hazards of public service,” she said.
“Tapos naman ang kaso,” the mayor added, noting that she considers the issue settled unless she decides to file an appeal. “The Ombudsman has made their decision, and it is final. I must respect that decision.”
Despite the penalty, Soldevilla defended her refusal to grant Solas a renewal, citing unspecified “prior cases” against the complainant.
“I refuse to answer,” she said, declining to elaborate on the contractor’s background.
“While I respect the Ombudsman’s decision, I have no regrets because I made my decision with the firm belief that it was in the best interest of my people. As the Chief Executive, the Constitution grants me the authority to act in ways that protect the general welfare of my constituents,” she asserted, suggesting the Ombudsman “may not fully understand the situation on the ground.”
Soldevilla insisted that if there had been anything gravely wrong with her actions, the penalty would have been harsher.
“If there was anything wrong with my actions, I would have faced suspension,” she said.
“The people of Zarraga understand my intentions, my fairness, and my love for public service,” she added./PN