Justice Secretary Among Ombudsman Candidates Early
MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is among 17 hopefuls who have applied for the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB), aiming to replace the outgoing Ombudsman Samuel Martires. Martires is scheduled to retire on July 27, 2025.
The early list of applicants for the OMB, as reported by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) by 4:30 p.m. last Friday, includes prominent figures from the judiciary and government agencies.
Who Are the Candidates for Ombudsman?
- Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan
- Former Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Kim Henares-Jacinto
- Philippine Competition Commission Chair Michael Aguinaldo
- Regional Trial Court Judge Jayson Rodenas
- Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Musngi
- Commission on Human Rights Commissioner Beda Epres
- Court of Appeals Associate Justice Bautista Corpin
- Deputy Executive Secretary Lisa Logan
- Department of the Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Romeo Benitez
- Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Chair Felix Reyes
- Sandiganbayan Presiding Judge Geraldine Econg
- Attorney Melvin Matibag
- Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Mario Lopez
- Retired Court of Appeals Justice Stephen Cruz
- Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
- Retired Regional Trial Court Judge Benjamin Turgano
- Attorney Jonie Caroche
Ombudsman Role and Selection Process
The Office of the Ombudsman plays a crucial role in investigating and prosecuting government officials accused of misconduct, including graft and corruption. The position is appointed by the President, making the selection process significant for the country’s fight against corruption.
The Judicial and Bar Council has tentatively scheduled public interviews for the candidates on July 30 and 31, and August 1 and 4, 2025. These sessions will allow further scrutiny of the applicants’ qualifications and suitability for the role.
Local leaders noted, “The appointment of the next Ombudsman will greatly impact transparency and accountability in government operations.” Meanwhile, sources said the applicants represent a diverse pool of legal experts and government officials committed to upholding integrity.
For more news and updates on Ombudsman candidates, visit Filipinokami.com.