Remulla, Aguinaldo shortlisted for Ombudsman post

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and six other individuals, including former Commission on Audit (CoA) chairperson Mike Aguinaldo, have been shortlisted by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) for the Ombudsman position.

Mike Aguinaldo emerged as the frontrunner, securing six votes from JBC members, while Remulla, Deputy Executive Secretary Ana Liza Logan, and Court of Appeals Justices Stephen Cruz, Ricardo Gaerlan, and Mario Lopez received four to five votes.

The JBC has forwarded its final list to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who will make the ultimate appointment.

The Ombudsman post has been vacant since July following the retirement of Samuel Martires, who served a seven-year term.

Aguinaldo's experience as CoA chair and his background in auditing government projects are considered significant qualifications for the role.

The new Ombudsman will serve a seven-year fixed term until 2032.

Remulla's inclusion was previously confirmed after an Ombudsman complaint against him was dismissed, allowing him to submit the necessary clearance to the JBC.