Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte Padilla, brother of Senator and former actor Robin Padilla, has been suspended for 18 months over alleged improper appointments of volunteers to government roles.

The decision came after the governor was found to have appointed two individuals to official posts without proper authorization.

The Ombudsman ruled that Padilla appointed former Mayor Senandro Jalgalado wrongfully as a member of the Governor’s Special Action Group (GSAG), which led to a one-year suspension.

He was also suspended for six months for naming Jorge Dayaon as a volunteer broadcaster for a state-owned radio station.

According to the Ombudsman, these appointments were made without legal basis or official sanction.

In the meantime, Board Member Dennis Riel will serve as Acting Governor starting July 1, 2025.

In an official statement read by Atty. Ferdinand Abejero, Governor Padilla’s spokesperson, the governor expressed regret over the decision and called for understanding from the public.

“Lubos na dinamdam ni Gob. Dong ang bigat ng mga parusang ito,” Abejero said.

He explained that the appointments were made with good intentions and aimed at helping the province.

“Naniniwala po tayo na ang kanyang ginawa ay tunay na may mabuting hangarin at ang mga ito ay alang-alang sa ikauunlad ng ating lalawigan,” Abejero said.

Despite the suspension, Padilla vowed to continue serving the province in every way he can.

“Mananatili po siyang matatag at determinado sa tungkulin bilang lingkod-bayan,” Abejero added.

The suspension will cover half of Padilla’s second term in office.