JBC announces shortlist for Ombudsman

MANILA, Philippines—The Judicial and Bar Council has voted on the list of nominees to fill up the shoes vacated by resigned Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

Included in the JBC’s shortlist is former Supreme Court Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales, believed to be the favorite of President Benigno Aquino III among the 27 aspirants. Morales administered President Aquino’s oath of office last year.

Also included in the list are Justice Undersecretary Leah Armamento, former Justice Secretary Artemio Tuquero and Presidential Commission on Good Government Commissioner Gerard Mosquera, according to Supreme Court spokesperson Jose Midas Marquez.

Their names will be submitted to President Aquino who has 90 days to make his choice.