Court of Appeals Reverses Ombudsman Decision, Reinstates Borbon Vice Mayor
In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeals (CA) has overturned the Office of the Ombudsman's earlier ruling that dismissed Borbon Vice Mayor Noel Dotillos from service. The decision, issued on Thursday, February 12, 2026, marks a pivotal reversal in a case centered on the release of a P570,000 anniversary bonus to municipal employees in 2019.
Lack of Substantial Evidence Cited in CA Ruling
In an 11-page decision, the CA determined that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate claims of grave misconduct, corruption, or willful intent to violate the law by Vice Mayor Dotillos. The court emphasized that the respondent failed to present substantial proof linking Dotillos to any corrupt activities or deliberate legal breaches.
"All told, no substantial evidence was presented by respondent to show that the elements of corruption, willful intent to violate the law or to disregard established rules were present on the part of petitioner when he entered into a COS with Dr. Dotillos," the CA decision stated, referencing a contract of service involving Dotillos's wife.
Background of the Ombudsman's Initial Ruling
The Ombudsman had previously found Dotillos guilty in October 2025 for two key infractions: approving the P570,000 bonus without proper appropriation and entering into a contract of service with his wife without prior authorization from the Sangguniang Bayan. This led to his dismissal from service, a decision that has now been reversed by the appellate court.
CA Upholds Good Faith and Municipal Ratification
The Court of Appeals ruled that Dotillos acted in good faith when authorizing the bonus release, relying on the collective will of the Sangguniang Bayan as expressed in Resolution No. 75. The court noted that Dotillos, as the local chief executive, honestly believed that specific funds had been appropriated for the bonus prior to the resolution's passage.
"With respect to the release of the 2019 Anniversary Bonus, records reveal that when petitioner authorized the release of the bonus amounting to P570,000, petitioner acted in good faith and in honest reliance on the collective will of the Sangguniang Bayan, through Resolution No. 75. Petitioner, being the local chief executive, honestly believed that a specific fund had already been appropriated for that purpose prior to the passing of Resolution No. 75," the decision elaborated.
Additionally, the CA highlighted that the Municipal Council later ratified the contested contract, further supporting Dotillos's position. This ratification played a crucial role in the court's assessment of the case, reinforcing the view that Dotillos's actions were not in violation of established rules.
Implications of the Reversal
This reversal by the Court of Appeals not only reinstates Vice Mayor Noel Dotillos but also sets a precedent regarding the interpretation of good faith and municipal authority in similar cases. It underscores the importance of substantial evidence in proving allegations of misconduct and corruption at the local government level.
The decision brings closure to a legal battle that has spanned several years, impacting the political landscape in Borbon and highlighting the judicial oversight mechanisms in place for public officials. As Dotillos returns to his duties, the case serves as a reminder of the rigorous standards required for dismissing elected officials from service.
