Photo credit: Mike Rama

The Office of the Ombudsman has dismissed Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama from government service, citing nepotism and grave misconduct. The decision also disqualifies Rama from reemployment in any government position moving forward.

The complaint, filed on February 28, 2023, by Jonel B. Suceda, accused Mayor Rama of appointing his brothers-in-law, Elmer and Gomer Mandanat, to key positions in Cebu City’s government. Both Elmer and Gomer are siblings of Rama’s second wife, Marilou Gimenez Mandanat-Rama, whom he married in 2021. According to records, Elmer was appointed as a Process Server under the Office of the Mayor, while Gomer served as an Administrative Aide III at the Cebu City Medical Center.

Rama reappointed them both for subsequent terms, which led to the filing of the complaint. The Ombudsman determined that these appointments were nepotistic since the relationship by affinity (marriage) extends up to the third degree.

Mayor’s Defense and Ombudsman’s Response

In his defense, Mayor Rama claimed that it was not feasible for him to scrutinize every potential appointee personally. Instead, he relied on the certifications provided by the city’s Human Resource Department Office (HRDO) and other relevant departments to ensure compliance with the law.

Despite this explanation, the Ombudsman ruled that Rama’s appointments violated the rules on nepotism under the Civil Service Commission’s guidelines, and his actions constituted grave misconduct. This resulted in his dismissal from service and a permanent ban from reemployment in any government agency.

What’s Next for Mayor Rama?

The decision has sparked mixed reactions in Cebu City and beyond. Some believe it’s a justified move to uphold ethical standards, while others see it as a politically motivated attack against Rama. The former mayor is expected to appeal the Ombudsman’s ruling, but for now, the verdict stands.