Former Philippine Ambassador to Brazil Marichu Mauro who was dismissed for allegedly maltreating her helper last year said that she will seek to appeal her case to the Court of Appeals.

In an interview, Mauro said that she will ask the court to review the administrative proceeding conducted by the Foreign Affairs Department that led to her dismissal.

“I was hoping that it was only suspension. Because for me, dismissal is not proportionate to the extent of the case, of the offense,” she said.

RELATED STORY: Ex-envoy to Brazil Marichu Mauro says viral CCTV clip ‘looped’

President Rodrigo Duterte said he has approved the dismissal of Mauro from the Philippine Foreign Service, and the recommended accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification of holding public office and bar from taking civil service examination.

Mauro insists that the DFA disregarded her evidence and they may be under pressure to give such a recommendation.

“I am deeply remorseful of my behavior. I deeply regret it. Naging biktima rin ako ng COVID lockdown. I was under tremendous mental and emotional stress,” she said.

READ ON: Former PH Ambassador to Brazil blasts unfair portrayal of cruelty to OFWs

Despite her dismissal, Mauro said she is still thankful to the President and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teddyboy Locsin Jr. for giving her the chance to work for the country.

“I would like to thank them for giving me an opportunity to serve my country and my fellow Filipino and to serve the national interest of the Philippines abroad,” she said.

The post Ex-envoy Marichu Mauro to appeal dismissal from Court of Appeals appeared first on The Filipino Times.