The Office of the Ombudsman plans to refile administrative cases against seven Court of Appeals (CA) justices after the Supreme Court dismissed an earlier filing made by former Ombudsman Samuel Martires.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla confirmed during a Friday press conference that his office is currently reviewing the high court’s decision to ensure the upcoming submission adheres to proper procedures.
“We will study it kasi (because) we just found out about that, but we will refile it properly,” Remulla stated.
The initial complaint, filed by Martires in March 2025, targeted CA Associate Justices Marlene Gonzales-Sison, Rafael Antonio Santos, Louis Acosta, Roberto Quiroz, Rex Bernardo Pascual, Mary Charlene Hernandez Azura, and Ferdinand Baylon.
Martires cited gross ignorance of the law and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service after the appellate court overturned the Ombudsman’s preventive suspension orders against local officials in Antique.
However, in a December 3, 2025 resolution, the Supreme Court dismissed the case, citing a lack of merit and ruling that the issues raised were judicial in nature.
Remulla assured that his agency will comply with the high court’s guidance while pursuing the case.
“Kasi sabi nga nila, file a case. We will refile it. If that’s what the Supreme Court wants, we will do it,” he said.
The Ombudsman chief underscored the importance of transparency and public awareness in judicial matters, adding that his office intends to consult with representatives from both the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court moving forward.