FAILURE TO OBSERVE RULES OF DISPOSAL OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTIES

In the case of Anonymous vs. Bernard P. Ellamil, Jr., the Supreme Court addressed significant breaches of conduct related to the management of government property, illustrating the need for accountability in public service. The incident, which occurred on February 11, 2017, at the Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) Branch 2, involved Manny Genove and Bernard P. Ellamil. Genove, an employee of the Public Attorney's Office, was apprehended while taking 20 bundles of office supplies, falsely claiming to discard scraps. Through the subsequent investigation, inconsistencies emerged, notably with fellow employee De Guzman denying any permission granted for the disposal.

Ellamil's admission of soliciting Genove's assistance, albeit without authorization, underscored a systemic failure to adhere to established protocols. Judge Ortiz-Soriano’s recommendation to pursue charges – despite Ellamil's resignation and it being his first infraction – illustrates the judiciary's commitment to maintaining integrity in public service. As per Rule 140, Section 20, Ellamil was penalized with a fine of PHP 50,001, a decisive action reflecting that misconduct will not be tolerated. This ruling serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for strict observance of regulations governing government resources, reaffirming the foundational principle of accountability within the judicial system.