President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called for fairness and adherence to due process in light of the Office of the Ombudsman’s preventive suspension order against Cebu Governor Gwendolyn “Gwen” Garcia.
In a statement on Thursday, Marcos acknowledged the suspension and emphasized the need to respect the rule of law—especially with the May 12, 2025 elections just around the corner. “Any action impacting an elected official must go through the proper legal channels and align with our Constitution and election laws,” he said.
He praised Garcia’s consistent leadership in Cebu and asserted she should be treated with fairness while the legal issues are being resolved.
“Let’s not allow politics to interfere with public service,” Marcos added.
Garcia’s preventive suspension was triggered by a complaint from Moises Garcia Deiparine, citing multiple serious charges, including grave misconduct and violations of the Code of Conduct for public officials.
Despite the suspension order, Garcia remains firm in her position, asserting it lacks legal grounds. Her legal team has already initiated steps for clarification from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Her daughter, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, defended the governor’s leadership, describing it as unifying, courageous, and grounded in service to the people. She highlighted her mother’s role in bringing unity to Cebu through inclusive governance and decisive action.
Garcia’s political party, One Cebu, endorsed Marcos in the 2022 presidential race.