The Mandaue City Government has filed a criminal complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman–Visayas against a former cash clerk of the City Treasurer’s Office over the alleged misappropriation of more than P3.3 million in public funds.
The respondent, Mary Leah Quimbo, is facing charges of malversation of public funds under Article 217 of the Revised Penal Code and violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
Quimbo was dismissed from government service on October 13, 2025 after she was found administratively liable for grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
An internal audit showed that she failed to remit a total of P3,342,255.70 collected from business and occupational tax payments.
Investigators also flagged irregularities in her Daily Reports of Collections and Deposits (RCDs), which prompted demands for explanation and restitution.
City records show that the non-remittance was first detected in February 2024.
In April 2025, the City Treasurer’s Office required the clerk to explain the discrepancies.
When Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano assumed office in July, the new administration ordered a full legal review through the City Legal Office, which later confirmed her liability.
City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo Malig-on Jr. said the respondent was afforded due process but failed to satisfactorily explain the missing funds.
The complaint was filed on November 7, 2025 by the city government, represented by Malig-on, City Treasurer Claire Cabalda, and Assistant City Treasurer Julia Ballesteros.
Malig-on said public disclosure of the case was delayed due to Typhoon Tino and the subsequent holiday season.
While recovery of the funds remains uncertain, Malig-on said the city proceeded with the case to pursue accountability and possible restitution.
Following the incident, the City Treasurer’s Office implemented stricter internal controls, including enhanced supervision and real-time reporting of cash collections and deposits, to prevent similar incidents.
“Hopefully, wala nay ingon ana nga mga situation,” Malig-on said. (VCL)
