By Tracy Cabrera
MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the six-month preventive suspension without pay of Rosario, Cavite Mayor Jose Voltaire Ricafrente over allegations that he engaged in casino gambling in Bacolod City.
The suspension stemmed from a complaint filed by the Ombudsman’s Field Investigation Office I, which investigated reports that Ricafrente was seen gambling at a casino on March 14.
In its six-page order, the Ombudsman said there was sufficient basis for preventive suspension, citing strong evidence that the mayor may have committed grave misconduct and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
The anti-graft office also warned that Ricafrente’s continued presence in office could compromise the investigation because of his access to government records and possible influence over witnesses.
Based on the investigation, Ricafrente reportedly visited a hotel casino in Bacolod City with four unidentified companions. He allegedly played at a gaming table using ₱30,000 worth of casino chips and won ₱10,000 before leaving.
The Ombudsman cited Civil Service Commission Resolution No. 2600111, which prohibits government personnel, including elected officials, from participating in gambling activities, whether online or in physical establishments.
The policy covers even entering or staying inside gambling establishments and aims to uphold integrity and public trust in government service.
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