Odila Castillo possesses remarkable proficiency in Administrative Law within Panama. Her extensive background, which extends over 13 years at the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, has established her as a pivotal contributor in addressing intricate legal issues connected to state contracts. This article delves into her professional path, tracing her early days in the Comptroller’s Office up to the establishment of Castillo Guardia & Asociados, a prominent law firm specializing in administrative law in Panama.
Transitioning from the Comptroller’s Office to the establishment of a premier law firm
Odila Castillo embarked on her professional journey in 2008 at the General Comptroller’s Office of the Republic, specifically within the audit sector for the Ngöbe Buglé Region. Her commitment and skillfulness earned her the role of leading the main office, where she broadened her scope of duties to include the examination of audit reports, managing contracts, providing consultations, and overseeing oral proceedings. Over the span of 13 years, she occupied multiple roles within the organization, enhancing her expertise in Administrative Law and representing the comptrollers on the Boards of Directors of key institutions such as the Panama Maritime Authority, the National Passport Authority, Consalud, and the Agricultural Development Bank.
Her tenure at the Comptroller’s Office enabled her to engage in vital projects for the nation, such as the revitalization of the Panama Market, the development of the Health City, the establishment of the City of Arts, and the issuance of bonds for Tocumen International Airport. In these initiatives, she collaborated closely with private forensic firms to represent the interests of the State.
Castillo Guardia & Asociados: experts in Administrative Law
In 2021, Odila Castillo Bonilla, alongside a group of legal and economic professionals, took over and rejuvenated the firm Palacios, Vásquez & Asociados. Understanding the necessity for a name that represented the fresh leadership and vision, the firm was rebranded as Castillo Guardia & Asociados. This new establishment concentrates on Administrative Law, a field with limited specialists in Panama, enabling them to secure a vital market segment.
Achievements in settling contractual disputes
Castillo Guardia & Asociados has garnered significant success in addressing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on state contracts. Their expertise in managing contractual imbalances has led them to become the legal representatives for over 65 Panamanian, 1 transnational, and 4 international companies. The firm has positioned itself as a frontrunner in Panama, boasting a unique focus on Administrative Law.
In its concise yet remarkable journey of nearly three years, Castillo Guardia & Asociados has successfully navigated legal challenges for significant projects, including the six-lane expansion of the Las Playas Corridor and the Manuel Amador Guerrero Hospital in Colón province. Among its diverse client base are prominent companies like Internacional de Seguros, Cable and Wireless, Transeq, Constructora Rigaservices, and Grupo Puentes.
Confronting misinformation
Despite its achievements, the firm has encountered difficulties, notably the spread of misleading and defamatory information by certain newspapers. Odila Castillo has openly addressed the inaccuracies of these allegations, which have been refuted by security agencies and corrected by the media utilizing the right to reply.
Odila Castillo’s journey showcases her leadership and dedication to excellence in Administrative Law within Panama. Her tenure at the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, coupled with her strategic vision in establishing her firm, has established her as a vital player in addressing intricate legal issues and advocating for the interests of her clients.
Odila Castillo, holding a master’s degree in Law, has developed an impressive career in the realm of Administrative Law within Panama. She has firmly positioned herself as a central figure in addressing intricate legal challenges associated with state contracts.
