SC schedules Ombudsman candidate interviews Aug 28-Sept 2, reorganizes JIB to JIO

The Supreme Court has announced the schedule for public interviews of candidates applying for the position of Ombudsman following former Ombudsman Samuel Martires' retirement.

Public interviews will be conducted by the Judicial and Bar Council at the Supreme Court En Banc Session Hall from August 28 to September 2, with recordings uploaded after all interviews are completed.

On August 28, candidates include Michael Aguinaldo, Romeo Benitez, Jonie Caroche-Vestido, Bautista Corpin Jr., and Stephen Cruz.

The following day, August 29, the interviewees will be Geraldine Faith Econg, Beda Epres, Samuel Gaerlan, Kim Jacinto-Henares, Anna Liza Logan, Mario Lopez, Melvin Matibag, Michael Frederick Musngi, Jesus Crispin Remulla, Felix Reyes, Jason Rodenas, and Benjamin Turgano.

Additionally, the Supreme Court reorganized the Judicial Integrity Board into the Judicial Integrity Office to improve administrative disciplinary case handling within the judiciary.

The new office will streamline processes and strengthen accountability among judges, officials, and employees of the courts with a single Judicial Integrity Officer appointed by the SC for a four-year term.