G.R. No. RTJ-00-1561 & RTJ-01-1659. November 21, 2001
Carina Agarao and Anonymous, complainants, vs. Judge Jose J. Parentela, Jr., Clerk of Court Gloria Lorenzo, and Court Stenographer Teresita Maraan, respondents.

FACTS

Two administrative complaints were filed against Judge Jose J. Parentela, Jr. of the RTC, Branch 23, Trece Martires, Cavite, Clerk of Court Gloria Lorenzo of the MTC, Sariaya, Quezon, and Court Stenographer Teresita Maraan. An anonymous letter charged Judge Parentela with corruption, abuse of power, and immorality. Specific allegations included accepting bribes for favorable decisions, improper handling of a murder case (People vs. Sta. Rita, et al.), and acquiring a house and car through illicit means. The complaint also detailed serious mismanagement within his court, with personnel performing irregular duties. A separate complaint from Carina Agarao echoed similar charges. The Office of the Court Administrator referred the matter to the NBI for a discreet investigation.
The NBI report found insufficient evidence to conclusively prove the corruption and bribery charges. Regarding the murder case, the NBI noted the prosecution’s initial bail recommendation for some accused suggested they were considered accomplices, making a conviction for a lesser offense not improbable. The investigation could not substantiate that the judge demanded or received a bribe. However, the NBI confirmed and the Court noted the public and scandalous extramarital affair between Judge Parentela and respondent Lorenzo. They openly carried on their relationship within the court premises, and Lorenzo improperly meddled in the judge’s chamber management despite being assigned to a different court.

ISSUE

Whether respondents Judge Parentela and Clerk of Court Lorenzo are administratively liable based on the evidence presented.

RULING

Yes, respondents are liable for gross immorality. While the charges of corruption and bribery were not substantiated by clear evidence, the charge of immorality was convincingly established. The Court emphasized that the exacting standard of moral conduct required of judges and court personnel admits no dichotomy between public and private life. A judge’s behavior must be free from any whiff of impropriety to preserve public confidence in the judiciary. This standard extends to all court employees, as their conduct reflects on the integrity of the courts.
The scandalous extramarital affair, openly flaunted within the court premises, constitutes gross immorality and conduct unbecoming a judicial officer and a court employee. It undermines the dignity and moral authority of the court. Under Rule 140 of the Revised Rules of Court, as amended, immorality is a serious charge. Accordingly, Judge Jose J. Parentela, Jr. is found GUILTY of gross immorality. He is penalized with the forfeiture of one-half of all retirement benefits, excluding accrued leave credits. Clerk of Court Gloria Lorenzo is DISMISSED from service with forfeiture of all benefits except accrued leave credits and with prejudice to re-employment in any government agency. The complaint against Teresita Maraan is dismissed for lack of evidence.