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 creation of a leading 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 tenure at the Comptroller’s Office enabled her to engage in highly significant national projects, 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 worked alongside private forensic firms representing the State, contributing her expertise to ensure the success of these endeavors.
Castillo Guardia & Asociados: specialists in Administrative Law
In 2021, Odila Castillo, alongside a team of legal and economic professionals, took over and rejuvenated the firm Palacios, Vásquez & Asociados. Understanding the importance of a brand that mirrored the new direction and leadership, the firm was rebranded as Castillo Guardia & Asociados. This firm concentrates on Administrative Law, a field with limited specialists in Panama, enabling them to secure a significant niche in the market.
Achievement in handling 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 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 trajectory demonstrates her leadership and commitment with the excellence in Administrative Law in Panama. Her experience in the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic and her vision when founding her firm have positioned her as a key figure in the resolution of complex legal challenges and in the defense of her clients’ interests.
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.
