Martires Denies Midnight Appointments: A Response to Ombudsman Remulla's Allegations
Former Ombudsman Samuel Martires refutes claims of making midnight appointments, emphasizing the necessity of hiring and promotions during his final year in office. In a Super Radyo dzBB interview, Martires clarifies that his actions were driven by the goal of streamlining the complaint resolution process. He explains that he requested the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to approve the hiring of 60 new lawyers in August 2024, aiming to merge the fact-finding investigation unit with the preliminary investigation unit of the Ombudsman. This strategic move, Martires argues, would expedite the resolution of complaints.
The DBM approved his request in January 2025, and the Civil Service Commission promptly published the opening for these new posts. Martires further clarifies that the 204 new hires and promotions, as mentioned by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, encompass a broader range of positions, including drivers and lawyers. He emphasizes that these appointments were made to fill vacant positions and were based on merit.
Martires also addresses the promotion of two personnel to Assistant Ombudsman, stating that these individuals were appointed to replace two Assistant Ombudsman who had retired. He highlights the importance of these positions as the supervisors of the bureau, ensuring that qualified individuals were selected for these roles. Remulla's suggestion for these hires to tender courtesy resignations is met with skepticism by Martires, who believes it is more applicable to those earning over P160,000 per month.
This response from Martires highlights the importance of transparency and merit-based appointments in the public sector, inviting further discussion on the criteria for such appointments and the potential impact on public trust.
