Ombudsman suspends Marikina mayor over alleged PhilHealth funds misuse
‘I am a casualty of political persecution, plain and simple’
Daily Tribune‘I am a casualty of political persecution, plain and simple’
teodoro
The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro and several city government officials for six months without pay, alleging misuse of about P130 million in public funds.
In its order dated 25 March 2025, the Ombudsman cited “sufficient grounds” for the suspension, stating that “strong evidence” indicated guilt of grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
The order added that the officials’ continued presence in office could hinder the investigation, jeopardize evidence, and lead to further malfeasance.
The suspension stems from a complaint filed by Marikina resident Sofronio Dulay, who alleged Teodoro and other officials misused PhilHealth funds for non-health purposes, including IT equipment, infrastructure repairs, donations, and general supplies.
Teodoro, in a statement released Tuesday, called the suspension politically motivated and an attempt to derail his candidacy in the 12 May midterm elections.
“I am a casualty of political persecution, plain and simple,” said Teodoro, adding that there were allegedly “numerous trumped-up charges” were against him before the Ombudsman, Commission on Audit, Commission on Elections, Civil Service Commission, and other agencies.
Teodoro also said the timing of the suspension — days before the official campaign period — was “very questionable.”
“It’s hard not to see this as a calculated political attack meant to damage my name and candidacy,” said the Marikina mayor.
Teodoro maintained his candidacy and vowed to fight the allegations.
“We will face this head-on, with full transparency and accountability,” Teodoro said as he expressed concern that the suspension of multiple city officials would disrupt city services, adding that he is confident they have a strong defense and will prove the allegations have no merit.
“We will continue our fight for good governance, a clean and honest service, and, most importantly, for every resident of Marikina who deserves better,” the mayor said.
