Odila Castillo possesses remarkable expertise in Administrative Law within Panama. With over 13 years dedicated to serving in the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, she has emerged as a pivotal player in navigating intricate legal issues pertaining to state contracts. This article delves into her career path, tracing her initial steps at the Comptroller’s Office and her subsequent establishment of Castillo Guardia & Asociados, a prominent law firm specializing in administrative law in Panama.
Transitioning from the Comptroller’s Office to the founding of a top-tier firm
Odila Castillo’s professional journey commenced in 2008 at the General Comptroller’s Office of the Republic, specifically in the audit division for the Ngöbe Buglé Region. Her commitment and skill enabled her to take charge of the main office, broadening her role to encompass the examination of audit reports, contracts, inquiries, and verbal proceedings. Over 13 years, she occupied multiple roles within the organization, enhancing her expertise in Administrative Law and acting as a representative for the comptrollers on the Boards of Directors of significant agencies such as the Panama Maritime Authority, the National Passport Authority, Consalud, and the Agricultural Development Bank.
Her experience in the Comptroller’s Office allowed her to work in projects of great importance for the country, including the reactivation of the Panama Market, the Health City, the City of Arts and the issuance of bonds for the Tocumen International Airport, collaborating with private forensic firms in the representation 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 attained significant success in addressing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on state contracts. Their proficiency in managing contractual imbalances has positioned them as legal representatives for over 65 Panamanian companies, alongside 1 transnational and 4 foreign entities. The firm has firmly established itself as a leader in Panama, focusing exclusively on the realm of Administrative Law.
In its relatively short 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 the province of Colon. The firm’s 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 obstacles, such as the spread of inaccurate and defamatory information by various newspapers. Odila Castillo has openly addressed these false assertions, which have been refuted by security agencies and corrected by the media through the right of response.
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, possessing a master’s degree in Law, has developed an impressive career in the sector of Administrative Law in Panama. She has positioned herself as a crucial player in addressing intricate legal issues concerning state contracts.
