Case Digest (A.M. No. 2019-08-SC)
Facts:
- Allan Christer C. Castillo served as a Driver I in the Motorpool Section of the Supreme Court of the Philippines.
- The incident took place on June 14, 2019, during the Supreme Court's anniversary celebration near the Supreme Court gate.
- Castillo allegedly slapped 16-year-old Andrew Alojacin, who was a helper and nephew of a food stall concessionaire.
- Witnesses reported that Castillo appeared intoxicated and became annoyed by Alojacin's laughter.
- Castillo allegedly threatened Alojacin, saying, "Kahit magsumbong pa kayo sa taas," while pointing towards the Supreme Court Centennial Building.
- Castillo contended that he felt insulted and only rebuffed Alojacin without any physical contact.
- CCTV footage contradicted Castillo's defense, showing him as the aggressor.
- An administrative complaint for simple misconduct was filed against Castillo, prompting an investigation by the Security Division.
Issue:
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Ruling:
- The Supreme Court found Allan Christer C. Castillo guilty of Conduct Unbecoming of a Court Employee, which constituted simple misconduct.
- He was suspended without pay for one month and one day. ...(Unlock)
Ratio:
- The Court highlighted that as a Supreme Court employee, Castillo was expected to maintain high standards of conduct and decorum, both during and outside of work hours.
- The incident, although occurring after office hours, adversely affected the Judiciary's reputation and necessitated accountability.
- CCTV evidence clearly showed Castillo as the aggresso...continue reading
Case Digest (A.M. No. 2019-08-SC)
Facts:
The case centers around Allan Christer C. Castillo, who served as a Driver I in the Motorpool Section of the Property Division, Office of Administrative Services of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. The incident in question took place on June 14, 2019, during the Supreme Court's anniversary celebration at the vicinity of the Supreme Court gate, specifically at the corner of Padre Faura Street and Taft Avenue. During this event, Castillo allegedly slapped a 16-year-old helper named Andrew Alojacin, who is the nephew of Emelinda V. Taotao, a concessionaire operating a food stall (stall space number 85) at the celebration. Witnesses reported that Castillo appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and became irritated by Alojacin's laughter while he was engaged in conversation with another individual. Following this, Castillo allegedly slapped Alojacin and threatened him with the statement, "Kahit magsumbong pa kayo sa taas," while gesturing towards the Supreme Court Centennial Building. In his defense, Castillo contended that he felt insulted by Alojacin's laughter and only rebuffed him without any physical contact. However, a CCTV recording from the Supreme Court contradicted Castillo's narrative, illustrating him as the aggressor who initi...