G.R. No. A.M. No. P-05-2085. January 20, 2010.
GERARDO Q. FERRERAS, Complainant, vs. RUDY P. ECLIPSE, Utility Worker I, Regional Trial Court, Branch 66, Baler, Aurora, Respondent.

FACTS

The administrative case originated from a complaint filed by Gerardo Q. Ferreras, Evidence Custodian of the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor (OPP) in Baler, Aurora, against Rudy P. Eclipse, Utility Worker I of the Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 66, Baler, Aurora, for tampering with evidence. The complaint alleged that on February 13, 2004, at around 2:30 a.m., within the RTC building premises, Eclipse replaced the rear right shock absorber of a blue Yamaha RS 100 motorcycle (with chassis and motor No. 4PF214216, plate RF-2658) that was in the custody of the OPP as evidence in a drug-related case. The incident was allegedly witnessed by security guard Ronald Gusilatar, who recorded it in the security logbook. The motorcycle was later released to its owner, Marivic Ritual, who noticed the replacement and damage. Ferreras investigated and found that Eclipse’s tricycle, which also used a Yamaha RS 100, had been in an accident before the incident, and its shock absorber was damaged. Eclipse denied the allegations, claiming the complaint was fabricated due to ill will from a prior incident where he reported a security guard for punching another employee’s time card. The case was referred for investigation, and Executive Judge Corazon D. Soluren recommended Eclipse’s dismissal, finding the complainant’s evidence credible.

ISSUE

Whether respondent Rudy P. Eclipse is administratively liable for dishonesty and grave misconduct for tampering with evidence.

RULING

Yes, the Supreme Court found respondent Rudy P. Eclipse guilty of dishonesty and grave misconduct. The Court upheld the findings of the investigating judge, giving weight to the credible testimony of security guard Ronald Gusilatar, who witnessed the incident and recorded it in the logbook, and the corroborating evidence from the motorcycle owner and mechanic. Eclipse’s defense of denial and alibi was deemed weak and unsupported. The Court emphasized that court personnel must uphold the highest standards of integrity, as their conduct reflects on the judiciary’s integrity. Dishonesty and grave misconduct are grave offenses under civil service rules, warranting dismissal even for a first offense. Accordingly, Eclipse was dismissed from service effective immediately, with forfeiture of all retirement benefits (except accrued leave credits) and prejudice to reemployment in any government agency.