Hon. Andrew B. Gonzales v. Gayta

Summary

This case involves the validity of extending preventive suspension beyond the statutory 90-day period for a government employee facing administrative charges. Dr. Liliosa R. Gayta, a DECS Division Superintendent, challenged the extension of her preventive suspension from June 2, 1999 to August 6, 1999. The Supreme Court affirmed the Court of Appeals ruling that the extension was illegal because the delay in administrative proceedings was attributable to DECS, not to the respondent. The Court emphasized that preventive suspension cannot exceed 90 days unless delay is due to the employee's fault, negligence, or petition. The case establishes important precedent on administrative due process and the strict construction of preventive suspension periods in government employment, awarding back salaries for illegal extension periods.