Atty. Merriam Fe Rojas vs Lovejoy Quiambao

A.C. No. 13496 – Legal Ethics – CPRA – Propriety; Accountability – A lawyer must be of good moral character – A lawyer must obey the laws

Atty. Merriam Fe Rojas filed a disbarment complaint against her husband, Atty. Lovejoy Bermudez Quiambao, citing grossly immoral conduct. They were married in 2005 and jointly operated a law firm. In 2016, their 18-year-old house helper, AAA, accused Quiambao of sexual abuse, including inappropriate touching, exposure to pornography, and lewd propositions. Upon confrontation, Quiambao admitted to being addicted to pornography and began psychiatric treatment. Further investigations by Atty. Rojas revealed that he had sexually abused at least 13 other former employees, some of whom were minors. Atty. Rojas obtained a Permanent Protection Order against him and filed for legal separation. During proceedings, Quiambao admitted to extramarital affairs and inappropriate conduct with employees.

ISSUE: Whether Atty. Lovejoy B. Quiambao should be disbarred for grossly immoral conduct.

HELD: Yes. The Supreme Court found that Atty. Quiambao’s actions constituted grossly immoral conduct, violating the Code of Professional Responsibility. His sexual abuse of employees, including minors, and extramarital affairs demonstrated a blatant disregard for moral standards expected of lawyers. His admissions and the evidence presented confirmed his unfitness to continue in the legal profession.

Lawyers are expected to uphold the highest moral standards. Engaging in sexual abuse and immoral conduct, especially involving subordinates and minors, is a grave violation warranting the severest disciplinary action, including disbarment.

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