Cavite mayor suspended over alleged illegal gambling involvement

MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman announced Thursday that it has suspended Rosario, Cavite Mayor Jose Voltaire Ricafrente pending investigation into his alleged involvement in illegal gambling operations.

The suspension order followed a complaint lodged by the Ombudsman's Field Investigation Office I, which conducted an inquiry into the mayor's purported participation in gambling activities at a casino facility in Bacolod City.

Preventive suspension is typically imposed during investigations to prevent officials from using their positions to obstruct inquiries or tamper with evidence. The Ombudsman's action reflects growing concern over public officials' alleged involvement in illegal gaming activities.

The investigation remains ongoing as the Ombudsman's office continues to gather evidence and testimony regarding the allegations against the municipal chief executive.