Case Summary (A.M. No. P-24-179)
Background of Allegations
In her verified Letter-Complaint dated January 16, 2023, Soloria alleged that her relationship with David began in 2017 when he was still legally married. They cohabited, leading to the birth of their daughter. However, David reportedly financially neglected Soloria and their child, proving to be selfish and demanding reimbursement for any financial assistance he provided. Evidence of David’s alleged womanizing surfaced, culminating in Soloria's decision to leave him in December 2022.
Respondent's Admission and Defense
In his Comment dated February 17, 2023, David acknowledged his legal marriage and his relationship with Soloria, which was not formalized under law. However, he denied accusations of neglecting his children and claimed to have supported them, although he characterized Soloria as difficult to communicate with. David admitted to having been caught napping during office hours and asserted that his relationship with the presiding judge had no bearing on his colleagues' willingness to engage with him professionally.
Judicial Integrity Board Report
The Judicial Integrity Board's Office of the Executive Director (JIB-OED) submitted a report on January 24, 2024, finding David guilty of gross immorality. The JIB recommended David's dismissal from service and disqualification from future government employment due to the substantial evidence proving his infidelity and immoral behavior, including his cohabitation with another mistress.
Court's Ruling
The Court adopted the JIB's findings and conclusions, asserting its jurisdiction over administrative matters involving judicial personnel and maintaining high standards of morality and integrity. The Court underscored the necessity for court employees to uphold conduct that reflects the dignity of the judiciary.
Findings on Gross Immorality
Evidence showed David’s admission of having had relationships with multiple women while still married. The Court clarified that gross immorality encompasses actions that conflict with societal morals and standards of decency. David’s illicit relationships and failure to maintain a moral standard as a public servant warranted the finding of guilt for gross immorality, justifying disciplinary action against him.
Evidence of Neglect and Support
The Court examined the allegations concerning David’s failure to support his children, ultimately finding no substantial evidence to uphold these claims. It recognized that the amount of support provided might be insufficient but did not indicate neglect or non-support. The evidence did not substantiate Soloria’s claims regarding David's alleged inattentiveness as a parent.
Allegations of Vulgar and Unbecoming Conduct
The Court affirmed that there was insufficient evidence to support claims of habitual tardiness or disorganized work performance as a result of David’s personal relationships. However, evidence presented by Soloria indicated that David had been found sleeping during office hours. This con
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Nature of the Case
- This case involves a verified letter-complaint filed by Michelle C. Soloria against Alberto R. David, a Utility Worker I at the Municipal Circuit Trial Court, Alcala-Bautista, Alcala, Pangasinan.
- Charges filed include gross immorality, prejudicial conduct gravely besmirching or tainting the reputation of the service, and vulgar and unbecoming conduct under Sections 14(i), 14(l), and 16(a) respectively of Rule 140 of the Rules of Court as amended by A.M. No. 21-08-09-SC.
Background Facts and Allegations
- Soloria began a relationship with David in 2017 while David was still legally married, cohabiting with Soloria starting 2018 and had a child with her.
- David was employed as a court utility worker, where his conduct reportedly declined due to womanizing; he allegedly refused to provide financial support except under reimbursement conditions.
- David's child with his legal wife was reportedly uneducated due to lack of support, with the wife providing financial support.
- Soloria caught David in 2022 with another mistress and confirmed in December 2022 that he was cohabiting with a second mistress.
- David admitted to being legally married, having relations with Soloria (not his wife), and moving on to another mistress while denying neglect of his children and poor work performance.
Allegations on Financial Support and Child Care
- Soloria asserted David did not sufficiently support their child, giving minimal goods with demands for repayment.
- No sufficient proof in the records of David’s failure to support or neglect; Soloria’s own admission indicated some support was given.
- David’s salary grade and financial responsibilities also considered in assessing support capacity.
- The Court found no basis to hold David liable for failing child support or care.
Allegations on Work Performance
- Soloria and co-workers claimed David suffered work performance issues due to his immorality.
- David admitted a single incident of napping during office hours due to exhaustion.
- The Court found him guilty of the light charge of vulgar and unbecoming conduct for sleeping during office hours and reprimanded him