Ombudsman Post Draws Sandiganbayan Justices Naturally
MANILA, Philippines — The Ombudsman post serves as a natural magnet for Sandiganbayan justices, explained Presiding Justice Geraldine Econg. This is largely because of the close collaboration between the Ombudsman’s office and the anti-graft court in tackling corruption cases involving public officials.
Justice Econg shared that applying for the Ombudsman position is her way of fulfilling her dream to serve more Filipinos. She addressed questions about why she pursued the role just months after becoming the Sandiganbayan’s presiding justice.
“Associate Justice Michael Musngi is also applying. So there are two candidates from the Sandiganbayan. I think the office of the Ombudsman, whether it’s the deputy or the Ombudsman position itself, is a natural magnet for the Sandiganbayan because we interact with the Ombudsman,” Econg told reporters in an interview.
She added that most prosecutors in their office come from the Ombudsman, and cases before the Sandiganbayan are usually filed by the Ombudsman. This familiarity with the office’s functions motivates justices like her to apply for the post.
Ombudsman Post Seen as Equal Opportunity Role
Econg emphasized that taking the Ombudsman position is not a step down in rank. “The position of the Ombudsman is the same rank as the Sandiganbayan presiding justice, and it’s the same rank as Salary Grade 31, as presiding Supreme Court associate justice,” she explained.
She continued, “So it’s not a demotion, but we have dreams, and it’s my way of reaching my dream to serve more people and to work for the good of our country. Of course, the position of the presiding justice is noble, and I don’t belittle this. I am very grateful that I have been appointed, and I want to serve the Sandiganbayan as well.”
Alongside Econg and Musngi, 17 other candidates have applied for the Ombudsman role. This comes as Ombudsman Samuel Martires is set to retire on July 27.
Other Notable Candidates and Background
The Judicial and Bar Council listed other applicants, including Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, and Commission on Human Rights Commissioner Beda Epres.
Earlier this year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Econg as head of the anti-graft court, succeeding Amparo Cabotaje-Tang, who retired in November.
Before becoming presiding justice, Econg chaired the Sandiganbayan Second Division since 2016, showcasing her extensive experience in anti-corruption efforts.
For more news and updates on Ombudsman post, visit Filipinokami.com.
