Ombudsman orders Garcia, ex-CCPO chief to respond to graft complaint

Local

WHAT started as a series of cockfighting events at a Cebu City hotel has now turned into a legal storm for Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia and former city police chief Police Colonel Antonietto Cañete.

The Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas has found probable cause to investigate both officials over their alleged role in approving unauthorized cockfights in 2024.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed by former city official Kristian Hassamal, who accused Garcia of unlawfully issuing permits without proper City Council approval.

A directive from the Ombudsman dated January 24 ordered Garcia and Cañete to submit counter-affidavits and evidence within 10 days or risk a decision based solely on existing records.

Hassamal, a former ally of ousted mayor Michael Rama, filed his complaint in November 2024, alleging that Garcia repeatedly issued "Letters of No Objection" (LONO) that allowed Ox KBDF Gaming to secure special permits for cockfighting events in April, May, July, and October last year. These events reportedly took place at a hotel within South Road Properties (SRP), despite legal requirements that were allegedly ignored.

Citing violations of Presidential Decree 449 (Cockfighting Law of 1974) and Cebu City Ordinance No. 1447 of 1993, Hassamal claimed that while the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) issued special permits, crucial conditions were unmet. These included a City Council resolution, police clearance, and proper payment of fees—yet the cockfights allegedly proceeded.

One of the key allegations involves a permit request for a cockfight from October 11 to 18, which the Sangguniang Panlungsod reportedly denied. However, Hassamal asserted that the event still took place, further questioning the extent of official involvement.

His complaint also pointed out that the venue was not a licensed cockpit, a requirement under national law.

Moreover, he argued that the events were held on weekdays without special City Council approval and lacked clearance from the Gamefowl Commission.

Additionally, there was no barangay approval, which is required for large-scale events affecting the community.

The complaint does not only implicate Garcia. Cañete, who was Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) chief at the time, allegedly endorsed the events, leading to accusations of grave misconduct. The case also cites Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct for Public Officials), Article 208 of the Revised Penal Code (which penalizes officers who fail to enforce the law), and Sections 3(e) and 3(j) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (which prohibit giving unwarranted benefits to private parties).

Rama, who was dismissed from office last year, has strongly backed Hassamal’s complaint. Calling the Ombudsman’s action a step toward accountability, he stressed the importance of following legal procedures.

He also took the opportunity to highlight alleged procedural lapses in his own dismissal, insisting he had not been properly served with notices.

Furthermore, he criticized Garcia, a lawyer, for not foreseeing the legal consequences of his actions. Rama revealed that he had instructed his legal team to pursue a disbarment case against Garcia, though he needed to confirm its current status.

If found guilty, Garcia and Cañete could face administrative sanctions, including suspension or dismissal from office.

The criminal aspect of the case could also lead to fines or imprisonment, depending on the Ombudsman’s findings and subsequent court rulings.

On Monday, Garcia refused to give comment on the matter during his weekly press conference at the City Hall.(MyTVCebu)