Palace: Remulla still DOJ chief, no Ombudsman shortlist yet

Malacañang Palace said that Jesus Crispin Remulla remains as Justice Secretary despite throwing in his hat for Ombudsman, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said Tuesday.

"The President has not mentioned this yet because the President has not yet received a shortlist. So, let's just wait and see what the decision will be at the right time," she said.

Castro said Remulla's decision to apply for Ombudsman is solely on his own. However, even if Remulla applied for the post, as there is no shortlist presented to the President, he will continue his duties as Secretary of Justice. 

"Until now, there is nothing yet, the Department of Justice has not been vacated yet. So, let's just wait," she said.

Castro added there's no shortlist also for possible replacement for Remulla should his application be accepted by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC).

"As of now, there is no detail yet with this as there is no short list for the position of the Ombudsman," she said.

Current Ombudsman Samuel Martires will be entering retirement as he will step down from his post on 27 July.

The JBC opened the application for application last May.