Ombudsman dismisses ex-MIAA chief

MANILA, Philippines — Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) officials have been found guilty of grave misconduct, abuse of authority or oppression and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

In a 21-page decision on Aug. 4, Ombudsman Samuel Martires found MIAA general manager Cesar Chiong and MIAA acting assistant general manager for finance and administration Irene Montalbo guilty of administrative offenses.

Chiong had “whimsically” reassigned 285 employees without any valid reason to divisions they have no expertise in or positions lower than what they previously occupied. Chiong also promoted Montalbo despite her unsatisfactory rating in the 2020 Office Performance Commitment and Review.

“The reassignment and designation of several employees by the respondents in complete disregard of the rules set forth by the CSC (Civil Service Commission) ran counter to the mandate of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees,” the ombudsman said.

As for Montalbo’s promotion, the ombudsman said the act was “clearly tainted with capriciousness.”

“It is highly irregular that she was still designated to the said position or reassigned to the said office when the office that she previously headed did not meet its performance target,” the ombudsman added.

Chiong and Montalbo have been dismissed from service and their dismissal is convertible to a year’s salary, which may be deducted from their “retirement benefits, accrued leave credits or any receivables” from their respective offices.