Politics · Philippines Bureau
Cagayan vice governor begins 90-day suspension in graft case
Manuel Mamba commenced his court-ordered preventive suspension on Monday after a Regional Trial Court in Ilocos Norte rejected his appeal. The Cagayan official said he respects the judicial decision and characterized the suspension as a procedural measure rather than a penalty.
LSN Philippines ·
TUGUEGARAO CITY — Cagayan Vice Governor Manuel Mamba started serving a 90-day preventive suspension on Monday, Sept. 21, following the Regional Trial Court's denial of his motion for reconsideration in a graft case.
The court in Batac, Ilocos Norte, upheld its earlier decision to impose the suspension, which Mamba said he would comply with fully. In a statement, the vice governor expressed respect for the court's ruling and emphasized that the suspension should be understood as a procedural requirement rather than a punitive measure.
Mamba's suspension stems from allegations under the anti-graft law. The vice governor maintained his position that the court process must be allowed to proceed while he fulfills the suspension order. Officials have not disclosed further details regarding the specific charges or timeline for resolution of the case.
The suspension leaves the Cagayan provincial government operating with adjusted leadership structure during the three-month period. Mamba's office has indicated continuity in administrative operations throughout his absence.