Judicial and Bar Council Releases Ombudsman Applicants List

Judicial and Bar Council Releases Ombudsman Applicants List

The Judicial and Bar Council has officially released the list of applicants for the Ombudsman position, confirming the candidacy of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. This announcement comes amid earlier reports suggesting Remulla’s disqualification due to a pending case before the very office he seeks to lead.

However, officials reported that the Supreme Court denied these claims, clarifying that the vetting process has yet to commence. The Judicial and Bar Council invites the public to participate actively in this critical selection by submitting feedback and objections.

Role and Vacancy of the Ombudsman Post

The Ombudsman plays a vital role in investigating and prosecuting government officials accused of graft and corruption. The position became vacant following the end of former Ombudsman Samuel Martires’ term on July 27, 2025.

With the Judicial and Bar Council releasing the list of applicants, the selection process has entered a decisive phase, drawing attention from various sectors of government and the judiciary.

Notable Applicants for the Ombudsman Position

The list features distinguished figures from different branches of government and the judiciary, signaling a highly competitive and important appointment. The applicants include:

1. Michael G. Aguinaldo, former Chairperson of the Commission on Audit (COA)
2. Romeo P. Benitez, Undersecretary of the Interior and Local Government
3. Jonie C. Caroche-Vestido, private law practitioner
4. Bautista G. Corpin Jr., Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals
5. Stephen C. Cruz, retired Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals
6. Geraldine Faith A. Econg, Presiding Justice of the Sandiganbayan
7. Beda A. Epres, Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights
8. Samuel H. Gaerlan, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court
9. Kim S. Jacinto-Henares, former Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue
10. Anna Liza G. Logan, Deputy Executive Secretary
11. Mario V. Lopez, retired Associate Justice of the Supreme Court
12. Melvin Matibag, Secretary General of PDP–Laban
13. Michael Frederick L. Musngi, Associate Justice of the Sandiganbayan
14. Jesus Crispin C. Remulla, Justice Secretary
15. Felix Reyes, Chairperson of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office
16. Jason G. Rodenas, Regional Trial Court Judge
17. Benjamin Turgano, retired Regional Trial Court Judge

Public Participation in the Selection Process

The Judicial and Bar Council, a constitutional body responsible for screening nominees for judicial and Ombudsman positions, encourages citizens to voice their opinions. Community members can submit their feedback and any formal opposition through an online survey available on the official JBC website.

Public inputs will be accepted until August 26, 2025, ensuring transparency and inclusiveness in choosing the next Ombudsman.

For more news and updates on Judicial and Bar Council, visit Filipinokami.com.