I have been made aware of the preventive suspension issued against Governor Gwendolyn Garcia of Cebu.

Let me be clear: in a time like this—so close to the elections—it is vital that we uphold the rule of law and observe due process. Any action that affects the mandate of a duly elected official must go through the proper channels and in accordance with the Constitution and the Omnibus Election Code.

Governor Garcia has served Cebu with strength and consistency. Until all legal questions surrounding this suspension are resolved, she deserves to be treated fairly and with the respect owed to her office.

Let us not allow politics to get in the way of public service. We must always be guided by the law, by prudence, and by what is best for the Filipino people.