HOUSE Secretary General Atty. Cheloy Garafil has issued a statement affirming the Office of the Secretary General’s profound respect for the Office of the Ombudsman and its mandate.
This clarification comes amidst concerns regarding the processing of communications between the two government bodies, emphasizing that all official correspondence is received and processed in accordance with established rules and procedures. The statement aims to dispel any perception of disrespect or evasion in handling communications from the Ombudsman.
Garafil detailed the current operational framework within the House of Representatives, explaining that the office observes a work-from-home arrangement on Tuesdays and Wednesdays as part of ongoing energy-saving measures.
This schedule dictates the availability of onsite personnel for processing official communications. Despite this arrangement, Garafil assured that there is no intention to show disrespect or avoid responding to the Ombudsman. All official communications will be diligently attended to in line with existing regulations and with the utmost respect for the institution.
The Secretary General reiterated the commitment of her office to handle all official communications appropriately and with full deference to the Ombudsman’s office.
This assurance is intended to reinforce the House’s dedication to inter-agency cooperation and adherence to procedural protocols. The statement underscores the importance of maintaining proper channels and respecting the mandates of constitutional bodies, even within the constraints of operational adjustments like the current work-from-home policy.
The Office of the Secretary General seeks to assure all stakeholders, particularly the Office of the Ombudsman, that their communications are treated with the seriousness and respect they deserve.
The current processing schedule is a consequence of implemented energy-saving measures and does not reflect a lack of commitment to fulfilling their duties. Garafil’s statement emphasizes a proactive approach to transparency and cooperation, ensuring that the House continues to operate within the bounds of established rules and collegial respect for other government institutions.
