The Manila City Council has suspended one of its members for 60 days after finding sufficient grounds in a harassment complaint filed against him.

Under Resolution No. 393, the council, led by Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, approved the suspension of Councilor “Kuya Ryan” Ponce following a privilege speech delivered by Councilor Eunice Castro on October 9, which contained allegations of harassment against Ponce.

Atienza said the council’s action demonstrates its commitment to maintaining high ethical standards among elected officials.

“Nais naming ipakita na ang ganitong mga reklamo ay hindi dapat binabalewala,” Atienza stated.

According to the Committee on Ethics, the allegations made by Castro were credible, and although Ponce apologized, he must still be held accountable as a public official.

Councilor Atty. Jaybee Hizon, who led the investigation, explained that the 60-day suspension was the maximum penalty that could be imposed under the council’s internal rules.

Because the case originated from a privilege speech rather than a formal verified complaint, the council’s disciplinary power was limited by the Local Government Code.

In addition to the suspension, the council also approved the reorganization of all committees in which Ponce was a member.

The suspension will take effect 15 days after Ponce receives the official notice.

Atienza assured the public that the Manila City Council remains committed to upholding integrity and ethical conduct in government service to preserve public trust.