Remulla, 16 others contend for Ombudsman post
Metro Manila, Philippines - Seventeen lawyers, including Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, will contend for the Ombudsman post, based on the list released by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) on Friday, Aug. 15.
The applicants vying to replace Samuel Martires, who retired on July 27, are:
+ former Commission on Audit Chairman Michael Aguinaldo
+ Interior Undersecretary Romeo Benitez
+ private law practitioner Jonie Caroche-Vestido
+ Court of Appeals Associate Justice Bautista Corpin Jr.
+ retired Court of Appeals Justice Stephen Cruz
+ Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith Econg
+ Commission on Human Rights chairman Beda Epres
+ Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan
+ former Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares
+ Office of the President executive secretary for legal sffairs Anna Liza Logan
+ retired Supreme Court Justice Mario Lopez
+ former PDP-Laban secretary general Melvin Matibag
+ Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngi
+ Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla
+ Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Chairman and retired Judge Felix Reyes
+ Municipal Trial Court Judge Jason Rodenas
+ retired Regional Trial Court Judge Benjamin Turgano
The JBC said the public “may submit a sworn complaint, report, or opposition” against any of the applicants through e-mail at jbc@judiciary.gov.ph or through mail or personally at the JBC office in Manila until Aug. 26, 4:30 p.m.
The JBC also posted a survey link on social media where the public can share their thoughts or concerns about the candidates.
Interviews are set for Aug. 28 to 29 and Sept. 1 to 2.
Remulla is still in the running, debunking an earlier report that said he was disqualified due to a pending case on the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity.
The Ombudsman handles investigations and prosecution of government officials accused of crimes.
