Ombudsman asks SC to revoke TRO against Junjun Binay suspension

MANILA, Philippines - The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday asked the Supreme Court to revoke the temporary restraining order (TRO) that the Court of Appeals (CA) issued against the suspension of Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin "Junjun" Binay.

The Ombudsman maintained that it has authority over an independent constitutional body in issuing a suspension order against a government official, according to a report from radio dzMM.

Last March 11, the Ombudsman issued a six-month suspension order against Binay in connection to the alleged overpriced construction of the Makati City Hall parking building.

Vice Mayor Romulo "Kid" Peña immediately took oath a few hours after the Department of the Interior and Local Government served the suspension order last March 16.

A few hours later, the CA then issued a 60-day TRO against Binay's suspension which the other camp questioned.

Binay asked the CA to cite Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and Justice Secretary Leila De Lima in contempt for defying the TRO against his preventive suspension.

READ: Junjun wants Morales, De Lima cited in contempt

Morales noted that the threat of contempt against her was illegal and improper as she is an impeachable officer.

The Binay camp is also set to sue Peña for usurpation of authority.

RELATED: Binay camp to sue 'acting mayor' for usurpation of authority