Despite being suspended by the Ombudsman for the alleged misuse of public funds, Marikina Mayor Marcelino Teodoro can still run for congressman in the city’s first district, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Comelec Chairman George Garcia confirmed that the suspension has no impact on Teodoro’s candidacy as long as there is no final court judgment in the case.
The Ombudsman suspended Teodoro and 18 other city officials on March 21 for allegedly misusing P130 million in PhilHealth funds, citing strong evidence against them.
Although the suspension does not affect his eligibility, it may have political consequences for his campaign.
Police are closely monitoring the situation in Marikina, but so far, there have been no protests from Teodoro’s supporters.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 27, 2025
