Martires, Ramirez, Sandoval in JBC shortlist for next Ombudsman; Bello disqualified

By Moira Encina
Eagle News Service

The Judicial and Bar Council has come up with its shortlist of nominees to replace Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, whose term is set to expire on July 26.

Included in the shortlist were  Supreme Court Associate Justice Samuel Martires, retired Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Edilberto Sandoval, and private law practitioner  Felito Ramirez.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III was disqualified.

Only recently, Kilusang Pagbabago National Movement for Change secretary-general Monalie Dizon filed a graft complaint against him before the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission.

The complaint was in connection with alleged irregularities in the labor department.

Bello is also allegedly facing a syndicated estafa complaint in the Department of Justice.

Martires got six votes; Sandoval got five; and Ramirez got four.

There are seven JBC members .

President Rodrigo Duterte is slated to choose from the shortlist within 90 days of receipt of the same.