Name: WDC
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 69.229.248.3

Comments

The Philippine DOJ must pursue the plunder case against the Arroyo family regardless what the Ombudsman position is or else the Filipino people will do it for them just like those Egyptians, Libyans and Syrians. To be fair, after Arroyo, next will be the Estradas, the Marcoses, Romualdezes, the Cojuangcos, etc.

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE: Merciditas Gutierrez resigned her position as Ombudsman without waiting for the senate trial. Then comes Rep. Neri Colmenares saying that Gutierrez should turn state witness against GMA.. The problem with our Party- list representative is that they make statements without consulting those who are knowledgeable in the law..Gutierrez can't testify against GMA because at one time or another before she was appointed as Ombudsman she was Counsel to the President. A Lawyer cannot testify against their former clients for anything divulge to them in confidence. That is the lawyer client rule of confidentiality.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

Administrative & criminal charges filed against M. Guitierrez. It's now full damage control on this ongoing public relations nightmare for her. She said it's the right thing to do. Finally. Being blamed for protecting her protector GMA she has to resign (as if it's a heroic act) for national interest & her allegiance to the Filipino people. This is the tip of the iceberg & may ultimately lead to charge Arroyo to explain anomalous transactions under her administration under the protection of Merci. Knowing our very slow justice & criminal system, this might take a while to pursue. The gov't must expedite this quickly.

Name: WDC
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 75.38.77.104

Comments

It is an excellent idea to make Merci Gutierrez to be the star witness against her boss GMA. If this is the only avenue to put GMA and her family in prison, then give Merci all the immunities.

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE Pres. Pnoy-- Noynoy Aquino has a good heart and has very good intentions of leading honestly.. He has appointed some very honest people .. But the only way they will succeed is if the other branches of government cooperate and do the right thing. People will be skeptical until they see some big fish serving jailtime. At present it is all headlines.. Our hope is that the new ombudsman will be serious in prosecuting those who have unduly enriched themselves while in office and that they are convicted and serve jail time.

Name: 7gtg
City/State/Country: regnsk
IP Address: 24.89.83.100

Comments

PNL: " The country is not irretrievably lost, and there remains a glimmer of justice and fairness in the land..." Noooo! this is bad news to the bashers and whiners in this forum. The bashers and whiners believe there is no glimmer of hope for the home country. The whiners and bashers will suffer depression of the severe kind the moment the Philippines becomes great again. Severe attack of regret will hit them. Kung bakit pa kasi nagsipag abroad. Hindi naman pala kailangan. Iyong classmate nila nasa Philippines umuunlad at naging famous (sa bayan nila). Sila wala, empleyado pa rin. Ni kapitbahay nila hindi sila kilalala. lolz.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

Merceditas G. is good in lying & selling illusions. She does not look trustworthy in the eyes of the public. Her face & body language show signs of arrogance & contempt. It's a known fact that she shielded GMA & pretended that she didn't do anything wrong. She could not bite the hands of her master so to speak. In short, she's the perfect 'tuta' of Gloria Arroyo specifically chosen to look the other way but no matter how powerful or popular she thinks she is, she has to face the music now. No more empty talk & nonsense.

Name: Philippine & US Legal Researcher
City/State/Country: Clark County, NV
IP Address: 24.253.66.68

Comments

Phil Researcher: There is no legal impediment for Merceditas Gutierrez to turn state witness. It is clear under Philippine law that an Ombudsman has no attorney-client relationship with a President. In fact, based on the 1987 Constitution, the Ombudsman's client is not the President but the Filipino people that she is swore to protect. Her being counsel to the President only protects confidences that was imparted on her on behalf of the Office of the President which does not include confidences involving the commission of crimes such as obstruction of justice or graft and corruption. The attorney client privilege may not be used to commit crimes. That is clear.

Name: Manny
City/State/Country: Virginia
IP Address: 68.10.228.220

Comments

Did Ombudsman Gutierrez strike another tactic by an act of her voluntarily resignation??? She did that to protect bigwigs from her allies- not for the sake of the Phils. SHE SHOULD STILL BE IMPEACHED....People like her and other corrupt/dishonest in the government deserved to be punish by law- kaya walang katapusang kahirapan sa Pilipinas. Gising para makita ninyo ang mga nakawan sa gobyerno ng Pilipinas....Halos pare pareho sila at kanya kanya sila ng pamaraan -MATAKOT SANA NAMAN SILA SA DIYOS. Ipinapakain sa pamilya ay nakaw!!!!!

Name: Dindo
City/State/Country: Chicago,IL USA
IP Address: 76.29.124.28

Comments

Merci Gutierrez is a plain "hypocrite" when she said ,"My Loyalty is in my country before Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo" She is a typical high ranking government official who practice "Lakas, Lagay at Lusot" What took her so long to resign and waste so much time and resources...well she think that "puwede pa siyang makalusot because she can count on GMA's allies..!

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

This whole impeachment proceeding against Maldita Gutierrez of the Ombudsman Office has been well planned, orchestrated, and choreographed the moment BS Aquino took office. Perhaps it was the same degree of planning the CIA put into effect to get rid of Osama Bin Laden. My gut feel tells me that to lessen future charges or lighter sentence (because Maldita's legal miseries are not yet over) she will become a canary of some kind whose tweet would be music to BS Aquino's ears and to the people in general. I HOPE I AM RIGHT

Name: Kalabog
City/State/Country: Daraga Libog, Albay
IP Address: 64.40.183.70

Comments

PNL editorialized Pnoy's presidency and corruption with the comment: "...If the answer is no, then we end up with second Aquino president who though well intentioned ends up achieving nothing for the country. " Let's see. The real acid test for Pnoy is not to go after the lesser evil like Gutierrez-- but to address the clever maneuvering of his biggest supporter (i.e., Danding Cojuanco) to escape if not circumvent the law of the land: land reform and the Hacienda Luisita. His mother showed her real color during her term-coward "yellow" - and did not address the issue. NOW let's see if PNOY will follow through! SO where is the "transparency" that he was so proud to invoke?? Blood is thicker than the law?

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Even before Maldita resigned, one by one the President's men are being investigated and they are facing charges. It is rather too naive to conclude that the dominoe will sart falling. It started very early on when BS Aquino assumed office. Mikey Arroyo is being investigated. FG may also follow , but the catch for the day would be Gloria Makapal Arroyo. After the family has been disposed of, time to focus on CORONA of the Supreme Court and its incompetent men in black robes.

Name: blumtrit
City/State/Country: addict sa lagay
IP Address: 67.80.159.186

Comments

We remember deputy ombuds Emilio Gonzalez trying to extort money from Mendoza while the hostage taking was going on in Luneta and was cleared by the ombudsman herself. This guy doesn’t want to resign and leave his post. What will it take for you to give it up, you want 150K again or maybe a Porsche car too? Don’t wait till they pull your neck out of your body cuz they mean business – no more hanky panky for you this time, it has to stop.

Name: Mike M. Moreno
City/State/Country: Richmond City, B.C.
IP Address: 174.6.119.168

Comments

The resignation as Ombudsman of Atty. Merci Gutierrez which will take effect on May 6 might open big waves of fmr. Philippine President GMA's men/women "disconnecting with her" to tell all. GMA's whole family are now out of the country and were spotted in San Francisco, Ca. I think they are "on the run."

Name: blumtrit
City/State/Country: Leeches or tuko?
IP Address: 67.80.159.186

Comments

For delicadeza, people appointed by Merci just before she leeaves should resign. There should be a law on this. New appointees include Assistant Ombudsmen Aleu Amante, Marilou Ancheta-Mejica, Maribeth Padios, Elvira Chua, Caezar Asuncon, Joselito Fangon and Rolando Zoleta. Wala talagang magaling na gawa itong si Merci, pareho sila nang boss nya. They should be branded as leeches if they don’t resign.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

'Sa matuwid na landas'..no matter how long this case will take, justice will be done & must prevail. If MG will be convicted of the charges of corruption in the Phils, (it will not be entirely eliminated). It's a tiny start that will hopefully bring this ombudsman to answer why she kept a low-profile on high-end corruption cases by her boss GMA. Likewise, why did she make a deal with a corrupt AFP general? As a lawman, is this the proper way or the corrupt system of bringing justice in the Phils? She had a low rate of conviction when she was the ombudsman. Why? Self-preservation or the ultimate allegiance to a corrupt president? It sucks & is a mockery 100%.

Name: jaime
City/State/Country: chicago, il
IP Address: 24.12.34.139

Comments

just like any good news from the Philippines that appears to combat corruption, nothing will come out of this. this too will eventually be forgotten and corruption will remain as a way of life in this corrupt ridden and driven country. don't the Filipinos get it? nothing will be accomplished when the corrupts accuse their enemies of the same wrongdoings the accusers are themselves guilty of. Filipinos should accept the fact that the Philippines will ALWAYS BE A CORRUPT COUNTRY, because the people allowed this to go on for too long and they therefore should quit bitching about corrupt politicians, judges, military, law enforcement, government employees, etc., etc., etc!! YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW!!!

Name: Marty
City/State/Country: Dhahran
IP Address: 82.167.35.198

Comments

Most Filipinos seem excited about the ongoing replacement of the Ombudsman, and not understanding the ballgame is playing out just the way the new administration desires. Now the current administration under PNOY will have an Ombudsman loyal to him, and no possible legal review or check and balance system to prevent new corruption. Now everyone is clapping with joy. GMA is small potatoes, PNOY should go after the Cojuangco's (18 billion back taxes), Lucio Tan(25 Billion back taxes) and Estrada (5 Billion).

Name: LPiF
City/State/Country: Los Angeles, CA
IP Address: 76.166.197.27

Comments

PADRINO SYSTEM (palakasan) is our downfall, has been failing our government since day one! I have posted that numerous times in this forum. GMA appointed Merci for only ONE REASON, to be a TUTA! Appointments should go through administrative procedure (Presidential Nomination) per se. Isn't the Senate responsible in confirming such? Are there no debates, hearings & other activities before the senate officially receives the nomination? Where are the pundits of this country, have they all turned powerless eunuchs? Or should they all wear skirts like Merci?

Name: As I See It
City/State/Country: SanDiego,CA/CebuCity
IP Address: 173.138.41.229

Comments

The domino effect that starts with the prosecution of the Ombudsman Merci Gutierrez and Rep. Mikey Arroyo defends on the 'political will' of PNoy and how he handles the it. His 'daang matuwid' advocacy (I am inclined to believe) will take roots on solid ground if he also takes a hands-off policy on those graft cases that involve his relatives, close buddies, party-mates, and ex-classmates, letting the wheel of justice take it due course. Otherwise 'daang matuwid' are just words compose of letters.

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County , CA USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE: Posters & Speculators-- Several posters here have made comments against the former Ombudsman alleging that she committed "criminal" acts..I have read many reports against the resigned Ombudsman but the only pending case against her was the Impeachment.. I don't believe there is any other case against her other than the impeachment and with her resignation that impeachment case has become moot and academic.

Name: blumtrit
City/State/Country: betobeto
IP Address: 67.80.159.186

Comments

Sen. Miriam Santiago best bet to replace Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez would be Gibo Teodoro. As a defense sec during Arroyos time, does he knew something in supplying the Ampatuans with arms? What a longshot for Miriam, para munang inabsuelto si Gloria. Next time the professor opens her poisonous mouth again her second bet will be Villaroyo. Mar Roxas would be our best bet.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

It will be a moment & a breakthrough in Phil history if our gov't finally convict MG. If the 'matuwid na landas' will finally prevail & be realized, this will be the first time to get these crooks to account for the misdeeds, manipulations, & mismanagement of our govt. Some of our leaders are blind, even with their eyes open & Filipinos like lemonade cuz our politicians hand out lemons to our people most of the time. This time, our gov't must be more direct, decisive, & daring in the conviction of the corrupt in our country instead of tiptoeing around the major issue. It's a great challenge & ultimate achievement if Pinoy can make it happen during his term.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Maldita Gutierrez has a long sheet of complaints filed against her since March of 2009. What really broke the camel’s back was the sweetheart deal with Gen Garcia. Instead of strengthening the criminal case against the general, that would have punished erring government official, she made it weaker. There were in fact other cases like the Fertilizer Scam, the Euro Generals, etc that did not prosper under her watch. When the wheels of justice against these erring public officials move at turtle pace or come to a sudden stop / stalled, the government and the people have nobody to blame but the one driving the vehicle of justice..IN LIFE, ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES.

Name: GFJBHEDF
City/State/Country: Hercules
IP Address: 76.103.7.246

Comments

The Ombudsman's impeachment in the lower house was all about party affiliation. The party et al with the most number called the impeachment. Since she resigned, to their dismay, and to the delight of the senate, because the senate wants to move on to important issues, rather than be bogged down with multi farce accusations, that have nothing to do with corruption, except the full of holes fertilizer scam that neither here nor there, the ombudsman is not being charged of corruption, so, ombudsman Gutierrez is walking away healthy, leaving all her accusers dumb founded, irate, fit to be tied. Oh well...

Name: Manila
City/State/Country: California USA
IP Address: 71.254.131.133

Comments

She said, for the sake of my family, I need to give them privacy, protection and not shamed. It is not true. She wanted to protect the Arroyo's Family. She pretended to be a strong woman, but the true finally came out that she could not handle the pressure. At least she did not kill herself, not like Reyes. Yon mga sumali kay Arroyo parang maging President si Arroyo, ay isang-isa titirahin nilang Estrada and the others. Lahat ay walang nangyaring noong siyang ay President dahil lahat ay binasura ng SC and the Ombus people like Gutierrez. Kawawang President Estrada, sinabalhe ni Arroyo while she was the Vice Pres. Nang mayabang sa mga perang nakuhang at nag-ibang bansa to enjoy life while the others are sufferings and children could not afford to go to schools.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

JRH: The administrative aspect of unseating Maldita Gutierrez was accomplished without the impeachment process because she resigned without a fight. People are waiting for the criminal charges. Is the DOJ capable of doing the more difficult task of bringing her to court? Baka naman another zarzuela lang ito?

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

The credibility of Pres. Aquino will take a big hit (zero) if he can't follow thru in the ultimate conviction of MG. This time the question will be..'will the DOJ be competent & committed enough to bring this major case to a successful conclusion'? If in the end MG is found guilty, we might actually be killing two birds with one stone. e.g., MG followed by the mentor GMA. A widespread repercussions that no one in gov't, no matter how powerful, will be safe in the end. GMA will have to come up with credible explanations of her poor performance & corrupt ways during her administration. Justice not done is justice not served.

Name: WDC
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 67.123.18.154

Comments

Who is next after Merci Gutierrez? Is PNL kidding? Most Filipinos tolerated and practice corruptions, and if you ask me, it will be the whole populations because majority of them are corrupt.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Phil Researcher: The privilege rule you are citing, to wit: " A Lawyer cannot testify against their former clients for anything divulge to them in confidence. That is the lawyer client rule of confidentiality." is not that broad and without limits. What if the attorney herself (in the case of Mercidita) is the one being accused and the only way Mercidita could exonerate herself is to reveal confidential communication between her and Arroyo? What say you?

Name: LATEPOCA
City/State/Country: SOMEWHERE IN TIME
IP Address: 121.1.30.222

Comments

Now that the OMBUDSMAN has resigned, PNOY has no reasons at all NOT to prosecute those corrupt officials in the GMA administration. Those officials are congressmen and etc. PNOY shall instructs HIEDY MENDOZA to conduct a thorough post PROVINCIAL AUDITS particularly on DPWH, the OFFICE of the Governor and etc. Lots of MONEY has been stolen from the PEOPLE by just looking on the real state of the road networks including those farm to market roads..........

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Phil Researcher: The entire term of PNoy will be spent litigating all those cases involving plunder and nefarious acts of military and private individuals. Conviction rate will be low as usual. When he leaves, he may be charged too. That is how the ball bounces as we use to say here in the US.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

Mercing tamad, walang ginawa. For her, being an ombudsman was just a part-time job. She just sat on major cases during her term but this iron lady finally broke down when she said her emotional goodbye to all her friends, associates & colleagues at the Ombudsman Office. But get this. She also appointed & promoted 8 key officials (midnight appointments) before resigning & making sure she has strong allies in this dept. The new ombudsman can't reverse this appointments. He/she (new boss) will be surrounded by MG's selected friends. What a smart cookie. She has the last ace up her sleeve.

Name: GFJBHEDF
City/State/Country: Hercules
IP Address: 76.103.7.246

Comments

"Will the other dominoes finally start falling" The Ombudsman resigns befitting her situation, as per deal/s negotiated behind close doors? This PNL editorial insinuatingly fishing your noodles the resignation is a domino falling. An ombudsman resignation a domino falling? How silly. Sillier still if you ascribe to it, seeing the editorial is meant to fan your anti CGMA sentiments. Go that road and you'll find it leads to nowhere. as in the adage, "There's a sucker born every minute."

Name: POGI
City/State/Country: Surrey,B.C. Canada
IP Address: 96.48.129.204

Comments

Wouldn't be nice after all the anomalies that our good friend Mr. Mar Roxas be the Ombudsman?

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA county ,Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE: Resignation of M. Gutierrez & Congresswoman GMA.. With the resignation of the Ombudsman, PNoy is going to appoint a new Ombudsman , there has been a report that SC Justice Carpio- Morales has been offered that job.. there is now a pending preliminary Investigation being done by the DOJ under De Lima on the Plunder charge filed by Former Sol Gen. F. Chavez.. Assuming that the Plunder case is filed against GMA that is a no bail case like that of Sen Lacson.. will GMA do a Lacson.. disappear while the Warrant of Arrest is being served.? Abangan.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Manny of Virginia: I think you got it all wrong. Impeachment is a legislative action to unseat Maldita Gutierrez and by resigning she gave up her seat as head of the Ombudsman Office. How could you simply send a person away when that person has left already? If you are looking for criminal charges, a separate venue is required but not the senate. Capisca?. AS TO DIVINE JUSTICE, HEAVEN COULD WAIT.

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE: JRH- of MTL Can -on Merciditas Gutierrez facing "Administrative and Criminal Charges" JRH The resigned Ombudsman has never been criminally charged.. her case is impeachment or removal from her office. There is no pending criminal charge against her. After her resignation may be you want file a criminal charge against her. The pending case became moot and academic when she submitted her resignation to the President of PH.

Name: deo
City/State/Country: flour city
IP Address: 74.65.5.159

Comments

Those who really want the a*s of Gutierrez can only accuse her of corrupt practices if they can prove that she tried to shield the characters of notorious cases, viz Broad Band, Fertilizer scam, Elections, AFP, among others. Being inept and having been appointed as Ombudsman just because she was classmate of Arroyo (the man) are not crimes.

Name: Salina O
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 66.214.62.39

Comments

She resigned to protect Mr. & Mrs. Pidal's et al. Merci should be hang in edsa for everyone to see, For all the crimes she has done to the Filipino people. Now, That she resigned she'll be laughing all the way to the bank. Courtesy of the crooks she's been protecting! This is one of the reasons why the Philippines never gets out from under because they're letting all the crooks get away with everything even murder. Have mercy on us.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

Filipinos are disenfranchised by the string of broken promises & breaches of trust of our past administration. It results in a gov't we deserve instead of a gov't we really want. So, now is the best time to bring necessary checks & balances. MG must answer hard questions on why she didn't do anything on the many scandals & outright corruption of GMA. Filipinos only want equal opportunity for the entirety of a people & not just a few in elected positions. The Office of the Ombudsman is a very large bureaucratic class that must do its job effectively & the responsibility towards a future we can all be proud of. MG is a disgrace 100% to hold that position. Time for her to start singing & do it right this time.

Name: Manuel C. Diaz
City/State/Country: Antipolo City
IP Address: 114.108.192.6

Comments

President BS Aquino and cohorts forced the resignation of the Ombudsman on the ground that she sat on cases filed against the Cronies of GMA wow again another selective enforcement of Justice. Why don't they also impeach all the Supreme Court Justices for sitting on cases elevated to them then decide after ten years. That is exactly the same offense as taht of the Ombudsman. This is Islas de Ladrones Justice system.

Name: LPiF
City/State/Country: Los Angeles, CA
IP Address: 76.166.197.27

Comments

Marty: I completely have to agree! Re: "Now the current administration under PNOY will have an Ombudsman loyal to him, and no possible legal review or check and balance system to prevent new corruption." His loyalty to him or to the people will remain to be seen. As the saying goes, history will repeat itself. Filipinos must stay vigilant and and remain united if we expect some positive changes to materialize. Let's hope PNoy will rewrite history. This may be our last opportunity to become great again! LET'S DO IT!

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County, Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

Re: I Up on your comment that the DOJ will follow up the resigned Ombudsman Gutierrez with a criminal case... the chances of that happening is Zero, Zip nada.. Before you know it she will be hired by some law firm as a Sr. Partner.. The resignation is it. De Lima has a lot of more pressing important cases.. prosecuting a former Ombudsman is very low priority..There are very few members of the bar who are in jail..A high profile Ateneo graduate won't be prosecuted in your life time.

Name: Manuel C. Diaz
City/State/Country: Antipolo City
IP Address: 120.28.64.75

Comments

Why not also impeach all the Supreme Court Justices for setting on most cases for ten years or more. Remember the case of Webb et. al was decided after 15 years. These Justices should also be impeached.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.227.23

Comments

Phil R, it's a complex question with a complex answer but one that must be addressed nonetheless based on the rule of law. The word I used in my post is 'facing' & not 'charged' as you're implying. Her resignation should not stop truth & justice be done. We are dealing with corrupt & unjust officials in our govt. Ex. P728 million fertilizer scam, P455 million ice-making machines, ZTE-NBN scandals, just to mention a few. Nothing was done about these cases during her time in office. With a weak economy, high unemployment, & a crippling gov't corruption, how can we help improve the lot of our people? Stealing their money is not the answer.

Name: pinaskongmahal
City/State/Country: usa
IP Address: 70.240.136.175

Comments

Maldi Guttierez, my a$$ falling my loyalty to the nation dah dah. Not one of the articles of impeachment reached prelim hearing in her sala. If you're incompetent, nothing will be accomplished. It's all dah dah. From prosecutor to a judge, no experience in the bench, what do you expect. Basides she's recommended by FG, a classmate and a prompter at the bar exam room. What a way to live! Wala gyud!

Name: POGI
City/State/Country: Surrey,B.C. Canada
IP Address: 96.48.129.204

Comments

Wouldn't it be better that Mr. Mar Roxas be the next Ombudsman?

Name: A. Poli
City/State/Country: Anywhere
IP Address: 64.229.179.135

Comments

Re: the comment - "PADRINO SYSTEM (palakasan) is our downfall, has been failing our government since day one! I have posted that numerous times in this forum. GMA appointed Merci for only ONE REASON, to be a TUTA! " ......well, its PNoy's turn now to put his own TUTA. As Erap had said during his term. "Weather-weather lang yan." he he he....

Name: GFJBHEDF
City/State/Country: Hercules
IP Address: 76.103.7.246

Comments

Who would be best ombudsman to help "No corupt, no mahirap" PNoy administration? After looking over many possibilities, I settled down on either Morales or Diokno. They are my top picks. What's yours?

Name: Manuel C. Diaz
City/State/Country: Antipolo City
IP Address: 120.28.64.75

Comments

To JRH of Canada do not put your hopes too high the Ombudsman is only the first base. Even if MG gets convicted in the Ombudsman or in the Sandigan Bayan the final arbiter is still the Philippine Supreme Court. Most of the Justices nine of them are GMA stooges including the Chief Justice Corona.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Corruption will never be reduced to an acceptable level because of low conviction rate for offenders. The government is unable to build a strong case against erring officials.Then we invoke the Christian virtue of forgiveness. Pinoys have short memory span. Time will forgive them kasi na kalimutan na yung kawalanghiyaan na nagawa nila hanggang maungkat na naman. Ipako sa krus para matuto.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Phil Researcher: As the head of the Ombudsman Office Maldita Gutierrez had to be removed from office first, for she is considered an officer of the law. She can't have it both ways. Now that she is not, there is no conflict of interest or undue influence she could exercise. Criminal charges could now be filed. Hintay lang ikaw. Why do you think, cops get suspended when they face criminal charges or placed on modified duties? Makes sense kumpadre? Tell me something that I don't know. Miron lang ako.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

JRH: wrote "Mercing tamad, walang ginawa. For her, being an ombudsman was just a part-time job.." Korek ka dyan adre Kaya nga tama ang appointment niya as head of the Ombudsman Office- UBOD nang tamad. Para din si Deo: Deo you see what I see? Di po matanda na ako!

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Anyone could suggest names for the Ombudsman Office like Gibo, Mar, or Kenkoy but the basic traits are quite simple: THE WISDOM OF SOLOMON AND THE HEART OF A LION.

Name: pinaskongmahal
City/State/Country: usa
IP Address: 70.240.136.175

Comments

PNoy, this is for you. Why not indict GMA, FG, Eppie Arroyo individually like a private citizen. Impeachment to GMA is impossible. She's well connected to almost all asungot Reps and Sens in congress. At the helm, she literally showered all of them with the bonanza of the pork barrel. Money is thicker than blood. From dollar salting to illegal ownership of US properties, let them rot in jail like Madoff(150 years).

Name: mockingmaya
City/State/Country: taft avenue, manila
IP Address: 67.181.5.21

Comments

A great statesman once said, "Politics is an honorable profession." But looking deeply into nature of what constitutes "statecraft," in terms of the systemic political corruption as a sine qua non of public service on the part of some Pinoy politicians, Ombudsman & other public Officers, it doesn't lead to the kind of moral-ethical or rational leadership. It fact, corrupt political leadership leads to suffering, poverty, anger, extra-judicial killing, institutionalized injustice & other violation of human rights. Most elected public servants lack insight, in terms of micro-macro policies, that would liberate the Filipino people from modern slavery.

Name: As I See It
City/State/Country: SanDiego,CA/CebuCity
IP Address: 107.25.254.153

Comments

Sooner or later the position of the Ombudsman is going to be filled up by somebody appointed by the PNoy. The office of the Ombudsman or Sandigan Bayan is supposed to be independent and should not beholden to the president. Then the question is what difference does it make if PNoy appoints someone who has been seen as very loyal to the president, in the likes of Mar Roxas as suggested by some posters, who as we may recall even gave way to PNoy & relegated himself just to be a vice president during the last presidential derby? Do we really want a highly independent Ombudsman or just plain Ombudsman who can not say 'No' to the current president?

Name: Mike
City/State/Country: Japan
IP Address: 124.26.145.86

Comments

Political operators like ombudsman Merci and her boss GMA believe that they can get away with all manner of corrupt acts just like Marcos and his cronies were able to in the past. However, today is a different time. The internet, texting and instant global communications makes keeping illegal acts secret very difficult. It is up to President Aquino to bring all these scalawags to justice. I just hope he has the energy and determination to see it through. Our worst fear is baka hangang salita lang sya...patay!!

Name: LPiF
City/State/Country: Los Angeles, CA
IP Address: 76.166.197.27

Comments

The definition of an OMBUDSMAN, in my own opinion is someone who is HONEST to himself and to GOD. He must possess the highest level of INTEGRITY. Smart, a Statesman but Unfriendly. He must keep an arms length from his peers as well as his rivals. He must treat everyone equally and fairly. Like 1 UP said, must have "WISDOM OF SOLOMON AND THE HEART OF A LION." Last but not least, well compensated! The salary scale has been stagnant, (marami namang pera sa kaban) I come to believe na pakana ng congress para me manakaw. Stop coming up with gov't programs that are useless, to avoid future FUND SCANDALS. Imbes na dagdag sa sweldo naibubulsa ng mga political crooks, ano ba yan!

Name: mockingmaya
City/State/Country: taft avenue, manila
IP Address: 67.181.5.21

Comments

Some issues are begging to be thought through. Some issues are fundamental that critics can't ignore them. Difficult & challenging issues are debated in this forum because the voices of Filipino people are clamoring to be heard. What are the duties & responsibilities of politicians, Ombudsman & other government Officers? What should Filipinos be doing with their education, talent, skills, strength, resources, energy and so forth? What does it mean to be an Ombudsman or a guardian of the Constitution? There are essential ideas that guide the Filipino people: liberty or freedom, the balance of political power & responsibility, separation of religion & state & other inalienable rights.

Name: blumtrit
City/State/Country: Amnesty
IP Address: 67.80.159.186

Comments

Here’s the deal for the corruptors, since nasa kultura natin ang mapagpatawad at maging maawain (maunawain) why not an amnesty? Sa kondition na kailangan ibalik ang 80% nang ninakaw sa kaban nang bayan – walang kulang walang bawas. Kung ayaw, ikulong nang 25 years at kunpiskahin ang lahat nang pag a-ari. Let them write sa blackboard 1000 times na they won’t do it again at humingi nang kapatawaran sa taong bayan by public television. This would save time and resources since the gov't needs to attend on other things in order to go forward with what we want to see best for our country. Happy Mother’s Day to all pnl posters (wives) pnl staffers and you too shane. 05/06

Name: deo
City/State/Country: flour city
IP Address: 74.65.5.159

Comments

By the way, I meant to make a comment on the featured picture Ombudsman Gutierrez handing her resignation to Aquino. Are those genuine smiles or ngiting aso? If genuine, parang nagsasabi ang dalawa ng "naisahan na naman natin ang mga Pinoy".

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

All the President's men (who served under Gloria Macapal Arroyo) will provide all the clue and evidence to connect the dots that Gloria was complicit in all these mega billion scandals. The government needs the testimonies of these subordinate managers to strengthen the plunder case against the petite president and now a congressperson from Lubao. If the Arroyos could not take the heat, they might flee and seek refuge in Islamabad. PNoy will haunt them down. If you were to ask Tony0, he would advocate trial in abstentia.

Name: Manuel C. Diaz
City/State/Country: Antipolo City
IP Address: 180.191.51.197

Comments

We keep on harping about the sins of omission of the former Ombudsman but we miss the bigger picture Supreme Court Justices deciding on cases after ten to fifteen years. If the Ombudsman was impeached and subsequently was forced to resign all the Supreme Court Justices should also be impeached and should resign for the same offense. Webb et. al. case was decided after fifteen years. The Ampatuan massacre case is now one year and counting the judge here should also be impeached or dismiss for allowing all those flimsy motion of the defense.

Name: Steve R
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 71.198.150.211

Comments

PHIL(s) save your money. There is no need to hire a new Ombudsperson. There are enough gov't officials making millions w/their TITLES. The likes of Sec. de Lima & staff can do the job. Ms. G & her staff created too many tangled webs for Sec. de Lima to untangle. Replace the office w/a national Grand Jury by Exec. Order/legislation. Jurors be a representative of the people w/total privacy for jurors; no one knows their name until their 1st day of duty. The Pres to last Barangay member are subject to be a Respondent. The “carrot”/enticement to become a juror - equal justice for all, exemplify their highest regard to community responsibility & the honor that they fell for being a member.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.230.42

Comments

There's a ripple effect on what MG did on a sweetheart deal with the crook Gen. Garcia. The Sandigan Bayan approved it. It means he will return P135 million instead of the original loot of P303 million. So, where will the rest of this money go? In his pocket or was it shared with Office of the Ombudsman? This is highly irregular, incompetent, & questionable. The Magnanakaw Inc.'s profit-sharing deal is a slap on the Filipinos, it's rotten & it stinks. Senate should appeal this unjust ruling & outright mockery of the justice system. Don't let these bastards cry all the way to the bank. They should go to jail. Lord have mercy.

Name: Steve R
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 71.198.150.211

Comments

“The country is not irretrievably lost, and there remains a glimmer of justice and fairness in the land” Patience, patience - the ability to wait, wait & continue to wait is what Filipinos need bcoz since the Marcos Martial Law, & all the presidents that followed, there were no shortage of reports of ongoing corruptions in the government & private companies. Will corruption ends with the exit of Ms. Gutierrez? Guess & hang on to a glimmer of hope that will have to sustained us not our own choosing but bcoz it is highly possible that business as usual seems to be the order of the month or next 5 yrs as noted or maybe exemplified by the child abuse case against Willie.

Name: Marie
City/State/Country: Batangas
IP Address: 80.109.30.155

Comments

An official of our new government like Merceditas Gutierrez must not really be tolerated. The dismissal and forced resignation is highly recommended to have a total victory over the evil forces.

Name: GFJBHEDF
City/State/Country: Hercules
IP Address: 76.103.7.246

Comments

Sandiganbayan approved the plea bargain entered into by Former AFP comptroller general Carlos Garcia and the office of the ombudsman Merciditas Guttierez, as per their finding that indeed the government's case was weak, and if pursued would have led to the former AFP comptroller's acquittal. Sandiganbayan said the hoopla was fanned by public opinion devoid of facts. That won't stop militant groups et al from filing their cases against the former ombudsman. The court needs all the filing fees.

Name: Steve R
City/State/Country: California
IP Address: 71.198.150.211

Comments

“The country is not irretrievably lost, and there remains a glimmer of justice and fairness in the land” Patience, patience - the ability to wait, wait & continue to wait is what Filipinos need bcoz since the Marcos Martial Law, & all the presidents that followed, there were no shortage of reports of ongoing corruptions in the government & private companies. Will corruption ends with the exit of Ms. Gutierrez? Guess & hang on to a glimmer of hope that will have to sustained us not our own choosing but bcoz it is highly possible that business as usual seems to be the order of the month or next 5 yrs as noted or maybe exemplified by the child abuse case against Willie.

Name: LPiF
City/State/Country: Los Angeles, CA
IP Address: 76.166.197.27

Comments

blumtrit/Amnesty: Re:"...why not an AMNESTY? Sa kondition na ibalik ang 80% nang ninakaw...." GREAT IDEA! Dre, kung ibabalik din lang eh LAHAT na, after all may AMNESTY naman sila. For all the years na ginamit ang pera tama na sa kanila na i keep ang interest na kinita ng pera. I think it is fair enough! PAANO NATIN MAISABATAS ITO, makakarating ba ito sa bagong OMBUDSMAN? PNLANOSAYNYO?

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

As I see it: "Sooner or later the position of the Ombudsman is going to be filled up by somebody appointed by the PNoy." You are naive to say that. Who else but the President chooses the candidate he trusts and Congress approves. You won't allow Corona to rob PNoy of this task, would you?

Name: LATEPOCA
City/State/Country: SOMEWHERE IN TIME
IP Address: 121.1.30.222

Comments

If PNOY has nothing to hide (deals) with respect to Mercidita's resignation, then PNOY shall start the ball rolling on any perceive corruptions of the GMA admin, instead on waiting for any whistle blowers to come out and sing hossanas. PNOY shall send NEW COA auditors to conduct post audit on any agencies (DPWH, BIR, Custom, Immigration, AFP & PNP, LTO, DepED, GSIS, PagIbig, SSS, Waterworks, DA, etc. where corruption heavenly thrives in the past. ACT NOW PNOY if you do not want to happen what had happened in the Middle East governments these days. Reign of thunder will be paired with your own campaign promises.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.230.42

Comments

This recent development in the Sandigang Bayan decision to approve this abnormal deal stinks. These crooks can have it their way. Adding insult to injury is the announcement of MG that it is the right thing to do. This is the most idiotic, no-brain, & stupid decision that this dumb Sandigan Bayan ever did. No doubt, lucrative deals were made. It is the only way deals are made. If all of these things really work, then, corruption is here to stay forever. It is not zarzuela or moro-moro anymore. Bastards, crooks, corrupts & the treasonables will forever rule & dominate our stupid & poor masa.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

Mike of Japan: It is the investigative reporting that exposes the shenanigans and anomalies of people who walk in the corridors of power. Reporters and the news media have become aggressive in making good news that make headlines. The internet, social networking systems, YouTube, etc make it faster for any news to become viral. THE LIPS ARE NO LONGER SEALED!

Name: tonyO
City/State/Country: pinas
IP Address: 111.68.59.76

Comments

1:2 The Sandiganbayan’s approval of the Plea Bargain Agreement link: LINK to a lesser crime of Bribery between the Ombudsman and former AFP Comptroller, Gen. Carlos Garcia, is inconsistent with its contention that Garcia have unexplained wealth, including valuable properties in the United States. Granting that the testimony of former COA Auditor is weak, 1. being based on “suspicions, innuendos, and unsupported allegations of fraud” and 2. that the written testimony of Gen. Garcia’s Wife, CLARITA, cannot be legally used against her husband and children.

Name: tonyO
City/State/Country: pinas
IP Address: 111.68.59.76

Comments

2:2 On the contrary, there is STRONG EVIDENCE that Gen. Garcia have unexplained wealth amounting to more than P75 Million, hence, he is liable for the crime of PLUNDER under Sec. 2, R.A. No. 7080. Ergo, the case against Garcia is STRONG rather than weak. It is not remote that this resolution of the Sandiganbayan will be reversed by the Supreme Court, on Appeal by the Solgen.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.230.42

Comments

Sandigan nang mga Corrupt is the new gov't dept..commit a major crime & bargain a way out later on. It's not a plunder case anymore for Gen. 'the crook' Garcia. Is this really justifiable? How can Filipinos ever trust this Sandigan Bayan? It's pure mockery & outright insult to our people. They said that the decision was made cuz of lack of probable cause. What? P305 million stolen is not probable cause? What a joke. Something must be done soon to the mental-health of these people, qualified professionals with doctorates in corruption. There's something seriously deficient here & it's getting worse. It's an acute mental illness of corrupt to the core gov't officials dominating the system. Way to go.

Name: slbejar
City/State/Country: chicago
IP Address: 99.105.68.41

Comments

There you go again about this woman, M. Gutierrez. The old adage," birds of the same feather flock together" Like her old boss (Arroyo) this woman, Gutierrez will sell her soul just to get what she wants. The fired Customs police chief Jose Yuchengco who was fired for not revealing his assets and liabilities consisting of farm lands, houses , lots, and more, has been reinstated in what is called" midnight deal" by Gutierrez. Gutierrez is typical corrupt government official that fills the entire bureaucracy who don't care about delecadeza or welfare of the people by just doing what they want . Wake up and speak up Philippines.

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.230.42

Comments

After the resignation of MG, there's a long line-up of tax evaders who will go to court soon. Our justice system in the Phils is now grinding. Lt. Gen. Ligot's multiple assets will be forfeited. The unbelievable number of houses, real properties, lots, & lands all over the Phils & some in the U.S. will rattle you brain. How could anyone be this greedy, materialistic, & a glutton? Others (Neri, Garcia, Mikey Arroyo et al) must also explain their unique cases before the courts. It might take time but eventually it will be a 'historic verdict' to convict just one crook. Then, hopefully, the domino-effect will follow. Our people can then be assured that law is just & working in the Phils. Good luck.

Name: As I See It
City/State/Country: SanDiego,CA/CebuCity
IP Address: 173.153.30.159

Comments

To 1UP: I would like to reprint portions of what I posted from which you commented: "the office of the Ombudsman or Sandiganbayan is supposed to be independent and should not beholden to the president...what difference does it make if PNoy appoints someone who has been seen as very loyal to the president ...do we really want a highly independent Ombudsman or just plain Ombudsman who cannot say 'No' to the current president." So 1UP did I give out any inkling or suggestion that PNoy is ought NOT to be the appointing authority? He even appointed COA's Heidi, did he not?

Name: Phil Researcher
City/State/Country: LA County, Ca USA
IP Address: 76.174.19.149

Comments

RE--AS I See It from San Diego Ca. formerly from Cebu City--.."Sooner or later the position of Ombudsman is going to be filled up by somebody appointed by PNoy..The office of the Ombudsman or Sandiganbayan is supposed to be independent and not beholden to the President.. AS I See it are you confused or what? The Ombudsman is a Constitutional Office under the 1987 Constitution.. The Sandiganbayan is a Court with 14 Justices with the same rank as the Court of Appeals..The Ombudsman is like the Provincial or City Fiscal.. Preliminary Investigation are investigated.. When there is a Case it is filed in the Sandiganbayan.. Anti-Graft and Corruption cases by Public Officials are Investigated by the Ombudsman and filed in the Sandiganbayan.

Name: Paco Sa Cruz
City/State/Country: Vietnam
IP Address: 113.170.210.132

Comments

If someone from our current crop of politicians shall decide as to who will be the next Ombudsman, let it be somebody who loves our country and wants it to progress. Let it be President PNOY. He has the best "integrity" among all the politicians in the Philippines.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

All past presidents from Marcos are guilty of cronyism. PNoy is guilty of this too. PNoy surrounds himself with buddies from Ateneo and other organizations. Maldita Gutierrez and Corona are cronies of Gloria Makapal Arroyo. Kay Mokongmaya he considers Deo as cohort and not crony. He has to earn his badge or stripe from the old man from Rochester kaya panig nang panig in everything Deo writes.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

I compare the role of Maldita Gutierrez of the Ombudsman Office as the town sheriff watching the behavior of erring public officials. They openly violate the ordinance of the town but the sheriff turns the other way. The sheriff never bothers to issue summons to these offenders. The judge (Congress) was napping and taking the afternoon siesta all the time. Complaints were dismissed when brought to Congress attention.

Name: 1 UP
City/State/Country: GOTHAM CITY
IP Address: 67.247.55.115

Comments

When an individual is inducted into a society of corrupt peers (rotten apples) and superiors who are more corrupt, the society itself is to be blamed and the country suffers. Individuals get easily infected by this contagion. You won't see anymore good and honest men. Corruption usually starts with a small amount for a small favor that eventually grows into bigger bribes and bigger favors. Just look at the size of scandals where a couple of millions is but some change. When the appointed sheriff like the Ombudsman is always seen taking a nap, who needs Maldita Gutierrez to bring order to the town?

Name: JRH
City/State/Country: mtl can
IP Address: 173.178.230.42

Comments

MG played roulette but it's crystal clear that Generals Garcia & Ligot skimmed public funds big time. A strong message must be sent & both of these top caliber crooks should be jailed. They abused their power & authority in handling AFP funds. Both of them did sophisticated scams to cheat the military & taxpayers over a prolonged period of time. No remorse, no regrets, & no excuses whatsoever. Clearly it's a breach of trust & fraud over multi-million pesos. Both of them committed false & dishonest acts. So, both of them deserve extensive jail time. It will be a disgrace & a crime not to do so.

Name: MARNY V
City/State/Country: Merced Lab na lab FG
IP Address: 69.141.41.243

Comments

Read 1st then do LINKS later: Merceditas Gutierrez requested a song for her friend First Gentleman: Goodbye--My--Friend--. Now--I-- really--have-- to go. Goodbye--my--Friend-- ! LINK Sad to see her go, but out of sight, out of mind. She'll have a lot of time to think what went wrong bc she did her job as Ombudsman protecting the interest of GMA. Her resignation opens all avenues to get GMA, oh NO ! Corona (lumang kotse, mabagal pa. Palitan mo ng Ford Mustang-USA made) misses Glo & begs! --So-- tell--me--now... And--I--won't ask-- again. --Will--you--still--love--me--tomorrow--! LINK Even If I'm no longer the Chief, I'll follow Merced, sige ka Glo ! Enjoy Links & wait, they might do an "ANGIE" (suicide) too!