Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has yet to receive a shortlist of nominees for the next Ombudsman but emphasized the Chief Executive's criteria for the successor of retiring Ombudsman Samuel Martires.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro stated that the President is looking for someone with integrity, courage, and fairness-qualities that should be exemplified not just by the next Ombudsman, but by all public servants. Castro highlighted that as of now, the President has not yet received a shortlist, but reiterated the importance of these values in the selection process.

Martires, who currently holds the position, is set to retire on July 27, 2025. The search for his successor is underway, with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and 16 other individuals having applied for the post. The Office of the Ombudsman, as a constitutional body, is responsible for investigating and prosecuting government officials accused of crimes, such as graft and corruption.

The new Ombudsman, once appointed, will serve a full term of seven years. The Judicial Bar Council has tentatively scheduled public interviews for the shortlisted candidates on July 30, 31, August 1, 4, and 6.