Sandiganbayan's Chief Justice Econg Pursues Dream of Serving as Ombudsman

Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith A. Econg, with 12 more years in the judiciary, aims to serve more people by applying for the Ombudsman post vacated by Ombudsman Samuel R. Martires on July 27. Econg sees this as a way to fulfill her dream and work for the country's good. She emphasizes the value of service over the length of tenure, noting that the Ombudsman position is on par with her current role in terms of rank and salary grade.

Econg, along with Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Michael Frederick L. Musngi, recognizes the familiarity with the Ombudsman's functions due to their work. She believes that taking on the Ombudsman role will enable her to enhance service delivery in the Philippines. Econg, who became the presiding justice of the anti-graft court in 2025, is among the many applicants for the Ombudsman position.

The Office of the Ombudsman, established in 1989 under Republic Act No. 6770, is tasked with investigating and prosecuting acts of public officers or employees that are deemed illegal, unjust, improper, or inefficient. It holds primary jurisdiction over cases within the Sandiganbayan's purview and can take over investigations from other government agencies.