By I. Inojales | 11:04 AM October 08, 2026
DILIMAN, Quezon City — The Office of the Ombudsman has warned government workers against using fuel allocated for government vehicles for private vehicles, citing a recent case involving a former Bohol provincial board member.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla issued the warning amid rising fuel costs, saying government officials found engaging in similar acts could face the harshest penalties under the law.
The Ombudsman cited the case of then Bohol Second District Board Member Vierna Mae Boniel-Maglasang, who was dismissed from service and perpetually disqualified from holding public office after being found administratively liable for two counts of serious dishonesty.
The Ombudsman also imposed the accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility and disqualification from taking civil service examinations. Her retirement benefits were likewise ordered forfeited.
The case stemmed from a complaint filed by Bohol Third District Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite, who alleged that Boniel-Maglasang in 2024 used 100 liters of gasoline allocated for a government vehicle for private vehicles.
In its 13-page decision, the Ombudsman said charging fuel expenses to a vehicle that was not covered by the authorized government fuel allocation system showed an intent to circumvent established accounting and auditing rules.
The act, according to the decision, also indicated an intent to obtain material gain and commit graft and corruption.
The Ombudsman stressed that public officials are expected to observe the highest degree of honesty and accountability, adding that a lack of integrity warrants administrative sanctions.
“Acts like this destroy the image of government,” Remulla said.
“Ang mga ganitong gawain—kasama na ang mga higop gasolina, pagkarga sa hindi government vehicle, at pamemeke ng mga resibo—ay hindi ipagsasawalang-bahala ng ahensya,” he added.
The Ombudsman warned that government officials found guilty of similar violations would face the appropriate penalties under the law.
Read original news from Ombudsman.
