Ombudsman

• What is the purpose of the Office of the Ombudsman?

  To oversee the conduct of public officials and apply appropriate sanctions if needed.
• Why was the Office of the Ombudsman created?

  To address the problem of neglect and misconduct of government officials and employees.
• Who conceptualized the need for a government entity to protect the people's interest?

  Senator Gerardo Roxas in 1969.
• What was the original name of the Office of the Ombudsman when it was created?

  The Office of the Citizens' Counselor.
• What limitation did the original Office of the Citizens' Counselor have?

  Its authority was limited to administrative acts of government agencies.
• What did the 1973 Constitution empower the National Assembly to do?

  Create the Office of the Ombudsman, known as the Tanodbayan.
• What is one of the powers of the Ombudsman in the event of failure of justice?

  The Ombudsman may file and prosecute corresponding criminal, civil, or administrative cases.
• When was the Office of the Ombudsman created by Presidential Decree?

  In June of 1978.
• How did the 1987 Constitution change the status of the Office of the Ombudsman?

  It made the Office a constitutionally created body independent of the three branches of government.
• What is the main purpose of the Office of the Ombudsman as stated in the study material?

  To maintain honesty and integrity in public service and combat graft and corruption.
• What are the main powers and functions of the Office of the Ombudsman?

  • Investigative
  • Prosecutor
  • Directorial and Preventive
  • Corrective
  • Inquiry and Information
• What types of acts can the Ombudsman investigate?

  Acts or omissions of any public official that are illegal, unjust, improper, or inefficient.
• What is the definition of malfeasance?

  Intentionally doing something illegal or wrong.
• What is misfeasance?

  Doing something legal but in the wrong way.
• What does nonfeasance refer to?

  Failing to do something that should have been done, resulting in harm or damage.
• What happens after the Ombudsman investigates a complaint?

  The Ombudsman may dismiss the complaint or file it with the appropriate court.
• What authority does the Ombudsman have regarding government officials and employees?

  The Ombudsman can direct them to perform their duties and prevent or rectify abuse.
• How can citizens bring unreasonable delays in government transactions to the Ombudsman's attention?

  By filing a complaint regarding the delays.
• What is the role of the Ombudsman in correcting government agency behavior?

  The Ombudsman can issue orders to expedite transactions and correct behavior.
• What does Section 26 of Republic Act 6770 empower the Ombudsman to do?

  Inquire and obtain information regarding the conduct of public officials.
• What is the significance of public accountability in the Ombudsman's functions?

  It helps minimize graft and corruption with public and government cooperation.
• What community initiatives have emerged in response to graft and corruption?

  Organizations like the Council for National Transparency and Anti-Graft Councils.
• What is the role of community-inspired agencies in relation to the Ombudsman?

  They help monitor government service delivery and report irregularities.
• What does the term "ombudsman" mean in Scandinavian?

  Representative or proxy.
• What is the responsibility of the Ombudsman of the Philippines?

  To investigate and prosecute government officials accused of crimes, especially graft and corruption.
• What is the primary task of the Ombudsman under the 1987 Philippine Constitution?

  To independently monitor all three branches of government for political corruption.
• What is the Sandiganbayan?

  A special anti-graft court where the Ombudsman files charges.
• What is the mandate of the Ombudsman and his Deputies?

  To act promptly on complaints against government officers and enforce their liabilities.
• What types of complaints does the Ombudsman prioritize?

  Complaints against high-ranking officials, grave offenses, and large sums of money.
• What are the powers, functions, and duties of the Office of the Ombudsman?

  • Investigate and prosecute acts of public officers
  • Direct government officials to perform duties
  • Recommend disciplinary actions against erring officials
  • Request assistance from government agencies
  • Publicize investigation matters when warranted
  • Determine causes of inefficiency and corruption
  • Administer oaths and issue subpoenas
  • Investigate ill-gotten wealth and prosecute involved parties
• How does the Office of the Ombudsman ensure independence from political influence?

  By having appointments that need no Congressional confirmation and fixed terms of office.
• What is required for the Ombudsman and his Deputies to be removed from office?

  They can only be removed by impeachment.
• What fiscal autonomy does the Office of the Ombudsman enjoy?

  It has an independent office with its own budget and financial management.