Malinao vs.

Reyes (1996)

Facts: Malinao filed an administrative case against Mayor Red for abuse of authority and denial of due process with
the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Marinduque. On August 12, 1994, members of the Sanggunian, by a vote of 5 to 3,
found Red guilty, vote signed only by presiding chairman. On September 5, the Sanggunian, voting 7 to 2, acquitted
Red of the charges against him. This vote was embodied in a Decision which was signed by all the members.
Malinao argued that the First Sanggunian Decision had already become final and executory for failure of Red to
appeal. The issue is whether or not the second Decision is valid.
Held: Yes, the second decision of acquittal is valid. In any case, this issue is already moot and academic as a result
of the expiration of Reds term during which the act complained of was allegedly committed, and further proceedings
are barred by his reelection. [Sec 66(b) LGC]. Reelection abates any administrative disciplinary proceedings against
the local elective official.

[Under Sec. 66 (b) of the LGC, the penalty of suspension cannot exceed the unexpired term of the official and any
administrative disciplinary proceeding against said official is abated if in the meantime he is re-elected because such
re-election is a condonation of whatever misconduct he might have committed during his previous term. In order to
render a decision in an administrative case involving elected local officials, the decision of the Sanggunian must be in
writing, stating clearly the facts and the reasons for such a decision.]