2 ex-Capiz workers charged in fraud case

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Two former employees of the Capiz provincial government have been charged over fraudulent transactions allegedly committed a few months ago.

Charges of estafa through falsification of public documents were filed against Maricris Guzman of Barangay Tiza, Roxas City, and Jerry Mae Junio of Barangay Dumolog, Roxas City.

A staff member of a catering service was also included in the complaint for allegedly conspiring in the anomalous transaction that defrauded provincial government funds.

According to lawyer Luvim Amores, provincial information officer and concurrent Human Resources and Management Office (HRMO) head, the case was filed on Oct. 24, 2025, before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.

The complaint was filed by Provincial Administrator Atty. Arthur John Biñas and assisted by Atty. Leobeth Deslate Delicana of the Provincial Legal Office (PLO).

Amores said the PLO continues to review the records of the two former employees to determine whether additional fraudulent transactions were committed.

She added that Gov. Fredenil Oto Castro has been working to secure more benefits and recognition for all provincial employees, but despite this, some are still not satisfied.

It may be recalled that 2nd District Deputy Administrator Rose Gardose discovered the alleged anomaly in a hotel and catering transaction involving a forged signature in a fictitious purchase request and an inflated attendance sheet.

Following Gardose’s discovery, the governor immediately ordered an investigation, which led to the uncovering of the employees’ alleged involvement in the fraudulent scheme.

The two workers reportedly resigned recently from their posts, citing health reasons.

Gov. Castro said he believes four employees—not just two—may have been involved in the transactions.

He added that he will no longer seek an investigation from the National Bureau of Investigation, which he initially considered, and will instead continue reviewing the employees’ past transactions to build a stronger case.

Daily Guardian has reached out to the two former employees for comment, but they have yet to respond as of press time.