Photo courtesy Rappler
LAS Piñas City Rep. Mark Santos called on fellow public servants and the public to respect the constitutional process in appointing the next Ombudsman, stressing that the decision rests solely with the President and must be guided by qualifications and integrity rather than politics.
Amid reports of opposition to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla’s possible appointment, Santos emphasized that the Ombudsman’s mandate is too important to be clouded by partisan maneuvering.
“The Ombudsman is the people’s shield against corruption and abuse. This position requires independence, competence, and integrity.
These are the standards by which the President must make his choice—not politics,” Santos said.
The lawmaker underscored Secretary Remulla’s long record of public service, legal expertise, and governance experience as qualities that make him more than capable of leading the Office of the Ombudsman.
Before his appointment to the DOJ, Remulla served as a three-term congressman and a former governor of Cavite, where he championed legislation on disaster resilience, digital governance, and anti-red tape measures.
“Secretary Remulla’s proven experience in law and justice equips him well to take on the responsibility of holding public officials accountable. What matters most is his capacity to uphold the rule of law without fear or favor,” Santos added.
Santos assured that the House of Representatives will work closely with the Ombudsman’s office, whoever is appointed, to strengthen laws that enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance.
“We owe it to the Filipino people to support the Ombudsman in fighting corruption. Let us not politicize this process—our focus should be on ensuring that the Office remains strong, independent, and truly for the people,” Santos said.
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