JBC vets 17 for Ombudsman, Remulla still on list

The Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) is currently vetting a list of 17 candidates for Ombudsman, with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla's name remaining on the official list.

An earlier online report incorrectly stated Remulla's disqualification, which was denied by both Remulla and the Supreme Court.

Remulla is among several officials being investigated by the ombudsman for charges including arbitrary detention and perjury, stemming from an inquiry into former president Rodrigo Duterte's alleged illegal arrest.

The Ombudsman position became vacant after Samuel Martires' term ended on July 27, 2025.

Other prominent applicants include Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Gaerlan, retired SC associate justice Mario Lopez, Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith Econg, and Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngi.

The JBC is inviting public feedback on the candidates until August 26, 4:30 p.m.