CEBU City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has remained tight-lipped regarding the gross misconduct and neglect of duty charges filed by former customs commissioner and mayoral candidate Yogi Filemon Ruiz.

The complaint stems from safety concerns caused by ongoing construction of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) system along major thoroughfares in the city.

In an interview, Garcia said that he has not yet received a copy of the complaint lodged against him before the Office of the Ombudsman Visayas.

"All I can say is katungod na niya mofile," he said on Friday, October 18.

The complaint, filed on Thursday, alleges that Garcia has allowed hazardous conditions to persist along Osmeña Boulevard.

Ruiz claims that the installation of lampposts from P. del Rosario Street to Plaza Independencia proceeded without the proper permits.

While the lampposts have since been removed, the debris and unfinished groundworks have reportedly remained for over four months, posing risks to motorists, pedestrians, and local businesses.

Ruiz, who is also seeking the mayoralty in the 2025 elections against Garcia and dismissed Mayor Michael Rama, said he decided to file the complaint after the mayor ignored his previous call to clear the streets from obstruction.

"It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of my decision to file a case against you due to your continued disregard for public safety," he said.

"This is for the sake of the Cebuanos, business owners, and commuters who have been adversely affected by the unfinished roadwork. Immediate action is needed to prevent potential accidents and save lives," he added.

The complaint accuses Garcia of grave misconduct and cites potential violations of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) for allegedly providing undue advantage to the BRT project’s management.

Ruiz also called for Garcia’s preventive suspension, arguing that his position as mayor could influence the investigation.(MyTVCebu)

• Tags
• #Raymond Garcia
• #Yogi Ruiz
• #Gross Misconduct
• #Neglect of Duty Charges
• #Cebu Bus Rapid Transit
• #CBRT
• #Office of the Ombudsman
• #Cebu City Politics