MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman is considering the creation of a dedicated “investment ombudsman” position to address grievances and administrative challenges encountered by business owners and investors, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla announced on Saturday.
Speaking on his weekly radio program broadcast over DZRH, Remulla discussed the proposal while exploring how cumbersome bureaucracy and administrative hurdles negatively impact commercial stakeholders.
Addressing concerns over political instability causing investor hesitation, Remulla noted that existing commercial enterprises must be freed from unnecessary administrative burdens to help stimulate economic movement and job creation.
“Magtatayo kami ng… investment ombudsman,” Remulla said during the radio broadcast.
The envisioned framework would designate a specific government official to handle complaints and resolve conflicts arising between entrepreneurs and local authorities, including issues at the barangay level or higher.
The concept of an investment ombudsman is not entirely novel, as past administrations have previously considered reviving the role to curb public sector corruption and streamline business permitting workflows.
To support the expansion of its programs and operations, Remulla revealed that his office is actively bolstering its legal team.
”We’re hiring 61 more lawyers ngayon hanggang December, then next year, we will hire 100 or 200 more,” he said.
The Ombudsman chief acknowledged that there are also ongoing operational concerns involving bodies such as the Anti-Red Tape Authority and the Philippine Competition Commission, though further specifics were not provided.
Remulla concluded that cutting redundant bureaucracy and enhancing government efficiency will make doing business easier while ultimately opening up more job opportunities for the Filipino workforce.