Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo Takes Officer-in-Charge Ombudsman Role
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Court of Appeals Justice Mariflor Punzalan-Castillo as the new officer-in-charge of the Office of the Ombudsman. This key appointment aims to strengthen the leadership of the anti-corruption body amid ongoing challenges.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed the decision to reporters through a Viber message. The appointment marks a significant milestone in Punzalan-Castillo’s extensive legal career, highlighting her expertise and dedication.
Legal Career Spanning Decades
Justice Punzalan-Castillo began her journey in the legal field in 1979, starting as an investigator. She later served as a prosecutor at the Office of Tanodbayan in 1985—an early role that laid the foundation for her commitment to justice and public service.
In November 2023, she was named presiding justice of the Court of Appeals, reflecting her peers’ trust and recognition of her leadership skills. Now, as officer-in-charge of the Office of the Ombudsman, she is expected to bring the same dedication to combating corruption and upholding integrity.
Challenges Ahead for the Ombudsman
The Office of the Ombudsman plays a vital role in ensuring government accountability and transparency in the Philippines. With Punzalan-Castillo at the helm, the office seeks to bolster its efforts in investigating and prosecuting public officials involved in corruption.
Local leaders noted the importance of this appointment, emphasizing the need for experienced leadership to navigate the complexities of the position. As officer-in-charge, Punzalan-Castillo will oversee ongoing cases and help set the tone for the office’s future direction.
For more news and updates on the Office of the Ombudsman, visit Filipinokami.com.
