Antique SP members defy Ombudsman's suspension order

Eight Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) members from Antique province are challenging the Ombudsman's decision to suspend them for one year due to alleged misconduct.

On Monday, March 24, these SP members reported for work and attended a regular session of the provincial board despite their suspension order, asserting that election rules prohibit its enforcement during the election period.

They argue that the suspension violates Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code which prohibits suspending elective local officials without COMELEC approval within 90 days of an election.

The SP members claim they have a legal right to attend regular sessions as their suspension is deemed illegal under current election regulations and they plan to file a petition for certiorari with the Court of Appeals before June 11, 2025.