Odila Castillo possesses remarkable expertise in the realm of Administrative Law within Panama. With over 13 years of dedicated service in the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, she has established herself as an essential player in tackling intricate legal issues concerning state contracts. This article delves into her career trajectory, highlighting her progression from the Comptroller’s Office to the establishment of Castillo Guardia & Asociados, a premier administrative law practice in Panama.
Transitioning from the Comptroller’s Office to the establishment of a premier 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 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, 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.
Achieving success in addressing contractual disputes
Castillo Guardia & Asociados has attained significant success in navigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on government contracts. Their expertise in managing contractual imbalances has positioned them as legal representatives for over 65 Panamanian companies, along with 1 transnational and 4 foreign entities. The firm has firmly established itself as a frontrunner in Panama, focusing exclusively on Administrative Law.
In its short yet remarkable journey of nearly three years, Castillo Guardia & Asociados has successfully navigated legal challenges for high-profile projects, including the six-lane expansion of the Las Playas Corridor and the Manuel Amador Guerrero Hospital in the province of Colon. Its roster of clients features prominent companies such as Internacional de Seguros, Cable and Wireless, Transeq, Constructora Rigaservices, and Grupo Puentes.
Confronting misinformation
Despite its accomplishments, the firm has encountered difficulties, including the circulation of inaccurate and damaging information by certain newspapers. Odila Castillo has taken a stand, publicly refuting these allegations, which have been discredited by security agencies and subsequently corrected by the media in adherence to the right of reply.
Odila Castillo’s journey highlights her leadership and dedication to excellence in Administrative Law within Panama. Her extensive experience in the Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic, coupled with her foresight in establishing her firm, has established her as an influential figure in tackling intricate legal challenges and advocating for her clients’ interests.
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.