TACLOBAN CITY — The Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Lapu-Lapu City has ordered the arrest of Tanauan, Leyte Mayor Gina Merilo in connection with a criminal case filed against her.

Judge Nelson Leyco of the Lapu-Lapu City RTC Branch 27 issued the warrant of arrest against Merilo on Tuesday, 9 December, for alleged violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The case stems from Merilo’s appointment of her former running mate for vice mayor, Quintin Octa Jr., to a job order position as project engineer following the May 2022 elections. The court noted that the appointment was made in violation of the one-year appointment ban.

The judge set bail at P30,000 for Merilo’s temporary release.

Attempts to reach Merilo for comment, including through her media point person, were unsuccessful as of press time.