Fairness in Picking the Next Ombudsman is Crucial
Several lawmakers emphasized that the credentials of applicants, not politics, must be the primary consideration in selecting the next Ombudsman. This call for fairness in picking the next Ombudsman comes amid ongoing discussions and social media debates surrounding candidates, including Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.
Deputy Speaker Jefferson Khonghun and Las Piñas City Representative Mark Anthony Santos both highlighted the importance of an impartial and thorough evaluation process. They urged the public and officials to respect the procedures set by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC), which is currently assessing judicial and quasi-judicial candidates.
Judicial and Bar Council’s Role in Evaluating Candidates
Khonghun pointed out that the JBC subjects candidates for posts like the Ombudsman to stringent standards. He stated, “We should allow the process to take its course. Let us give all candidates, including Secretary Remulla, (a chance) to show their qualifications and track record. Let us not be swayed by gossip or allegations that have no basis.”
He further explained that the JBC’s responsibility is to weigh applicants’ experience, integrity, and service. “If there are complaints, we should look at the matter. But this does not mean that they are automatically deemed guilty because a person filed a case,” Khonghun added.
Politics Must Not Influence the Ombudsman Selection
Both lawmakers stressed that politics should play no role in this critical appointment. Khonghun warned, “If politics would prevail, we would find it hard to believe the results. What the country needs is an Ombudsman who has credibility and true independence.”
He also cautioned against social media trials that damage reputations before any final decisions. “Sometimes, there is a tendency for people to use social media to destroy the reputation of a person even if there is no final decision yet. We cannot allow trial by publicity to replace the rule of law.”
Khonghun added that no case against Secretary Remulla has prospered so far, and disqualifying a candidate simply because of filed cases could lead to abuses of the justice system. “Because if filing cases is the mere reason for disqualification, then our justice system can be abused because people mad at you can just file cases against you and you can no longer be an Ombudsman,” he said.
Pending Cases and Supreme Court Guidance
Earlier rumors suggested that Remulla might be disqualified due to charges filed by Senator Imee Marcos related to the March 11 arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Remulla and others faced accusations of arbitrary detention for allowing the International Criminal Court to take custody of Duterte upon his arrival from Hong Kong.
However, officials reported that the Supreme Court clarified the process, stating Remulla must first secure clearance from the Office of the Ombudsman before being considered for the post. The JBC gave Remulla and another candidate, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Chair Felix Reyes Jr., until the final day of deliberations to submit this clearance.
According to Section 5 of the JBC’s Revised Rules, applicants with pending criminal or administrative cases cannot be nominated for judicial posts, including Ombudsman and related positions. If clearance is not obtained by the deadline, candidates will be excluded from the shortlist.
Lawmakers Stress Integrity Over Politics
Las Piñas Representative Mark Anthony Santos echoed the call for prioritizing competence and integrity over political considerations. “The Ombudsman is the people’s shield against corruption and abuse. This position requires independence, competence and integrity. These are the standards by which the president must make his choice—not politics,” he said.
Santos expressed confidence in Remulla’s qualifications. “Secretary Remulla’s proven experience in law and justice equips him well to take on the responsibility of holding public officials accountable. What matters most is his capacity to uphold the rule of law without fear or favor.”
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of supporting the Ombudsman’s office in its fight against corruption. “We owe it to the Filipino people to support the Ombudsman in fighting corruption. Let us not politicize this process. Our focus should be on ensuring that the Office remains strong, independent and truly for the people.”
For more news and updates on Ombudsman selection, visit Filipinokami.com.
