Ombudsman orders CHED to dismiss commissioner

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to dismiss commissioner Jo Mark Libre, after he was found guilty of nepotism and grave misconduct in the line of duty.

In a statement, CHED said it has already transferred Libre’s chairmanship of 24 state universities and colleges (SUCs) to other commissioners “to ensure the continuity of educational services and programs (in the institutions).”

The Ombudsman meted Libre last week the penalty of dismissal from service, which also means his retirement benefits – save for accrued leave credits – have been forfeited, and that he would be perpetually disqualified for reemployment in government service.

His dismissal was a result of complaints of his alleged recommendation of appointments of his relatives to work under his “immediate supervision.”

Libre had already been found guilty in 2019 by the Civil Service Commission of Davao region of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, fabrication of official documents, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of service.

The CSC said he has since been penalized and dismissed from service, but was still appointed by former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2020 as CHED commissioner until 2025, as his appeal against the CSC decision deemed the case ongoing and not final.

A senior House member yesterday asked CHED to stop appointing commissioners, who have pending charges, as heads of SUCs.

In a statement, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said CHED should exercise discretion in making such appointments.

“As to the CHED officials, appointed commissioners with pending serious charges should not be given assignments as chairs of the various SUC boards. If they have no delicadeza to resign, they should not be allowed to wield more power and influence over the SUCs,” he noted. – Sheila Crisostomo