Metro Manila, Philippines – The Supreme Court has scrapped the order that dismissed Overall Deputy Ombudsman Melchor Arthur Carandang from office right after his probe on then President Rodrigo Duterte’s wealth.

In the decision made accessible to the public on Saturday, May 2, the SC Third Division affirmed the Court of Appeals decision that also dismissed Carandang’s removal for “lack of jurisdiction.”

The court nullified the Office of the President’s decision in 2018. The order stated that Carandang was sacked from office as he was administratively liable for graft and corruption and betrayal of public trust

The decision also overturned the June 14, 2019 order of Ombudsman Samuel Martires that commanded Carandang to cease and desist from performing powers and functions of his post as it was declared vacant from his removal.

“Carandang is entitled to all retirement benefits effective upon the expiration of his term. He is likewise entitled to receive the salaries corresponding to the period of his preventive suspension and dismissal, but only up to the end of his term,” the SC ruled.

Associate Justice Maria Filomena Singh penned the decision with concurrence from Associate Justices Benjamin Caguioa, Henri Jean Paul Inting, Samuel Gaerlan, and Japar Dimaampao.