CA upholds dismissal of CHR commissioner

MANILA, Philippines - The Court of Appeals (CA) has upheld the dismissal by the ombudsman of Cecilia Rachel Quisumbing as commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

Last Aug. 26, the special sixth division rejected Quisumbing’s petition to reverse the Office of the Ombudsman’s decision finding her guilty of grave misconduct and violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

“It is well-settled that findings of fact and conclusions by the Office of the Ombudsman are conclusive when supported by substantial evidence, as in the present petition. Thus, we find no reason to overturn the (Ombudsman’s) assailed decision,” read the decision.

The case arose from the complaint of Ma. Regina Eugenio, Elizabeth Diego-Buizon, Alexander Fernandez and Jesse Ayuste, who were coterminous employees of Quisumbing.

In September 2013, Eugenio filed a complaint against Quisumbing alleging that she hired her in 2008 as CHR Administrative Aide VI.

Quisumbing mistreated, shouted at and humiliated her and her officemates during their more than four years of employment, she added.

Quisumbing would always get very angry at them for no reason, and then suddenly change her mood as if nothing happened, she added.

Eugenio alleged in her complaint that Quisumbing even made a script to serve as a guide for the whole office staff on how to answer her questions. Quisumbing also maintained several ghost employees, she added.

She was promoted provided that her salary increase differential would be given to Quisumbing, Eugenio said.

In July 2013, Eugenio resigned over supposed maltreatment and oppression by Quisumbing and eventually filed the complaint with the ombudsman.

The CA affirmed the ombudsman’s findings and the penalty of dismissal from the service for grave misconduct and violation of Section 7(d) of RA No. 6713 was meted on Quisumbing.

“Considering that mere acceptance of anything of monetary value in connection with the functions of a public office is prohibited act under Section 7(d) of RA No. 6713, no error can be imputed to the ombudsman who found petitioner Quisumbing guilty under the said law,” the CA said.