Malacañang on Tuesday stressed the importance of integrity, courage and fairness in the selection of the country’s next Ombudsman, who will replace retiring Ombudsman Samuel Martires later this month.
While the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) has yet to submit the official shortlist of nominees to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro reiterated the administration’s expectations to the next Ombudsman.
“Sa kasalukuyan ay wala pa pong natatanggap na shortlist ang Pangulo at katulad ng ating sinabi dapat po isang matino, matapang, fair… ‘Yun po ang ilan lamang sa mga pangunahin na dapat maging isang katangian ng public servant, hindi lang ng Ombudsman, lahat ng public servant,” Castro said in a press briefing at the Palace.
The Ombudsman, who serves a non-renewable seven-year term, plays a crucial role in upholding accountability in government by investigating and prosecuting officials accused of wrongdoing, including corruption and graft. Castro noted that these qualities are essential, especially in a position that often faces pressure from both political and public forces.
Among the applicants confirmed to be vying for the post is Justice secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, who previously expressed confidence in his qualifications for the role. He joins a list of other high-profile figures from the judiciary and public service sectors, as the JBC weighs its options to fill the vacancy.
The deadline for submission of online applications for the position of Ombudsman was last Friday, July 4. Public interviews with the applicants are scheduled for the end of the month and early August. The JBC will then draw up a shortlist of qualified candidates, from which the President will appoint the next Ombudsman.
The Palace assured the public that President Marcos would carefully consider the qualifications, track record, and values of each nominee, given the Ombudsman’s vital role in ensuring public trust in the government.
“This is a position that demands not only legal expertise, but also moral courage and impartiality,” Castro added in the briefing. “The President is aware of the gravity of this appointment.”
Martires, who has held the post since 2018, will retire on July 27. His term was marked by both high-profile investigations and controversy, including criticisms over his office’s limited release of public officials’ Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs).
With his exit, advocates and watchdog groups have called for a more transparent and independent successor—one who will prioritize fighting corruption, regardless of rank or political affiliation.
