Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano clarified that Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla’s call for courtesy resignations from employees hired or promoted during the final months of former Ombudsman Samuel Martires’ term is not an act of retaliation, but a gesture of loyalty to the institution rather than to any individual.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 3, Remulla encouraged 204 employees—those newly hired or promoted between Salary Grades 25 to 29 during the last three months of Martires’ tenure—to voluntarily submit their courtesy resignations.
“Ang gusto lang talaga ni Ombudsman is to start on the right foot. Ngayon, pagpasok po kasi ni Ombudsman, nakita po niya through the CSC na may uptick ng appointments na ginawa ng previous administration very near the end ng kanyang term,” Clavano explained.
According to him, some employees have already complied, while others are seeking support to avoid submission. Still, the Office of the Ombudsman is giving everyone the opportunity to demonstrate good faith.
“Dahil pag wala naman po tayong tinatago sa procedure kung paano sila na-hire o na-promote, then there’s really nothing to worry about. Gusto lang natin makita na willing silang magbigay ng full trust sa new administration at specifically sa Ombudsman mismo,” he added.
Clavano emphasized that the memorandum is not intended to insult or invalidate appointments, but rather to reaffirm commitment and trust in the Office of the Ombudsman.
As for those who choose not to comply, Clavano remarked briefly, “Well, we will cross the bridge when we get there.”