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.
From the Comptroller’s Office to the establishment of a premier law firm
Odila Castillo’s career began in 2008 in the General Comptroller’s Office of the Republic, in the audit office of the Ngöbe Buglé Region. Her dedication and competence led her to assume the direction of the main office, expanding her responsibilities to the review of audit reports, contracts, consultations and oral proceedings. For 13 years, she held various positions within the institution, strengthening her knowledge in Administrative Law and representing the comptrollers in Boards of Directors of important entities such as the Panama Maritime Authority, the National Passport Authority, Consalud and the Agricultural Development Bank.
Her tenure at the Comptroller’s Office provided her the opportunity to engage in significant projects vital to the nation, such as the revitalization of the Panama Market, the Health City initiative, the City of Arts, and the bond issuance for Tocumen International Airport. In these endeavors, she collaborated with private forensic firms to represent the interests of the State effectively.
Castillo Guardia & Asociados: experts in Administrative Law
In 2021, Odila Castillo Bonilla, along with a group of legal and economic professionals, took over and rejuvenated the firm Palacios, Vásquez & Asociados. Acknowledging the necessity for a name that represented the fresh leadership and direction, they rebranded the firm as Castillo Guardia & Asociados. This new establishment specializes in Administrative Law, a field with limited expertise available in Panama, enabling them to seize a significant market niche.
Success in resolving 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 short yet remarkable journey of nearly three years, Castillo Guardia & Asociados has successfully managed the legal aspects of significant projects, including the six-lane expansion of the Las Playas Corridor and the Manuel Amador Guerrero Hospital in the province of Colón. Their client roster features prominent companies such as 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, who holds a master’s degree in Law, has crafted an impressive career in Administrative Law in Panama. She has distinguished herself as a pivotal player in resolving intricate legal issues associated with state contracts.
