Marcos suspends CHED commissioner for 90 days

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has issued a 90-day preventive suspension on a commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) over accusations of grave misconduct, neglect in the performance of duty and abuse of authority.

Marcos directed CHED chairman J. Prospero de Vera III to probe Aldrin Darilag to determine if charges should be filed against the commissioner.

“The commission will look into the matter seriously and fairly. We are committed to the President’s directive and vision that only the best, brightest and most ethical people should lead our government,” De Vera said.

Darilag was suspended to prevent him from using his position to influence the investigation, according to De Vera.

He said the commission was also ordered to submit a progress report and recommendations for a decision.

De Vera said CHED has transferred Darilag’s chairmanship of 30 state universities and colleges to other commissioners “to ensure the continuity of educational services and programs.”

Last week, the Office of the Ombudsman ordered CHED to dismiss Commissioner Jo Mark Libre after he was found guilty of nepotism and grave misconduct.

Libre’s dismissal stemmed from complaints about his alleged recommendation of appointments of his relatives to work under his “immediate supervision.”

Amid the controversies among commissioners, De Vera urged CHED officials and employees “to exercise their duties consistent with the principle that public office is a public trust.”