Case Summary (A.M. No. P-04-1880)
Summary of Events
On March 12, 2003, Deputy Court Administrator Zenaida N. Elepaño alerted Presiding Judge Meinrado P. Paredes regarding the habitual tardiness of Francisco P. Baguio, noting instances of tardiness across several months in 2002. Baguio was required to provide an explanation for his tardiness, according to the guidelines set forth in Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 23. In his subsequent letter dated April 11, 2003, Baguio attributed his tardiness to residential distance and traffic issues.
Official Documentation of Tardiness
A Certification from the Leave Division of the Office of Administrative Services confirmed Baguio's continued tardiness, reporting further instances in January and February 2003, with 17 occurrences in January and 15 in February. This prompted a Memorandum from Court Administrator Presbitero J. Velasco, Jr., dated June 28, 2004, which recommended a reprimand based on the severity of Baguio's habitual tardiness, indicating its negative impact on judicial efficiency and public service.
Standards of Conduct in the Judiciary
The judiciary holds a high standard of conduct, expected to serve as a model for public service. The principle articulated in the constitutional mandate emphasizes that public office is a public trust, necessitating the strict adherence to office hours and the efficient use of time. Baguio's nonchalant attitude towards his habitual tardiness was viewed as undermining these standards, and prior decisions established that personal, domestic, or logistical issues do not constitute valid justifications for such behavior.
Ruling and Penalty
While recognizing
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Case Background
- The case involves Mr. Francisco P. Baguio, an Interpreter III at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 13 in Cebu City.
- The complaint originated from a letter dated March 12, 2003, from Deputy Court Administrator Zenaida N. ElepaAo, addressing Baguio's pattern of tardiness.
- Records indicated multiple instances of tardiness: 13 times in July, 11 in September, 13 in October, and 10 in December of 2002.
Respondent's Explanation
- In response to the notification of tardiness, Baguio submitted a letter dated April 11, 2003, explaining that:
- He resides 23 kilometers away from his workplace.
- His tardiness was occasionally attributed to traffic issues.
Subsequent Reports on Tardiness
- Additional records from the Leave Division of the Office of Administrative Services indicated further tardiness:
- 17 occurrences in January 2003.
- 15 occurrences in February 2003.