The Office of the Ombudsman found substantial evidence in a complaint filed against Mayor Jofel Soldevilla of Zarraga town, Province of Iloilo. 

The Ombudsman ordered that Soldevilla be fined the amount equivalent to six months of her basic salary. 

In October 2023, Christopher Solas, a contractor, filed a formal complaint at the Office of the Ombudsman against Soldevilla. 

Based on the administrative complaint, Soldevilla reportedly violated Republic Act 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, for the non-renewal of a business permit despite Solas' purported thorough compliance with the requisites. 

The decision of the Ombudsman cited that there is substantial evidence in the complaint against the mayor. 

According to Soldevilla, she has no regrets over her decision on the non-renewal of Solas’ business permit because of alleged complaints raised against the contractor for unfinished projects. 

“I respect the decision of the honorable Ombudsman as to the administrative case. I’m grateful that we are not suspended definitely. As to the decision, I made that decision with the firm belief that it’s for the general welfare of the Zarraganhon,” Soldevilla said. 

An official of Barangay Sambag, Zarraga confirmed that Solas is a resident of their barangay but he has not been seen in the area for quite some time.

Cecilia Plana, Barangay Sambag councilwoman, said that there was a complaint against Solas raised at the barangay because of an uncompleted project, but a settlement on the concern was reached. 

“Sa kanyang background, mapagbigay naman siyang tao. Sa nangyari noon, wala naman iyong utang. May project lang na kailangang tapusin. Tinapos na iyon,” Plana said. 

GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas tried to get a statement from Solas but he turned down an interview. The news team went to his house and learned that he has not been around for a long time.