The Senate may recommend giving the Office of the Ombudsman the authority to deputize private lawyers to assist with case prosecutions.
This proposal aims to address the current understaffing at the agency and organize a focused law enforcement arm to reduce reliance on the national police.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said Thursday these suggestions are part of the Blue Ribbon Committee’s partial recommendations following its flood control project investigation.
The idea to deputize private prosecutors was originally suggested by former Senate President and Justice Secretary Franklin Drilon.
Lacson noted that granting this authority through legislation would be a significant step toward strengthening the agency’s capabilities. By establishing its own law enforcement arm, the Ombudsman would no longer have to rely solely on the Philippine National Police or the National Bureau of Investigation. Ram Superable
The committee is nearly finished drafting its partial report and may hold up to two more hearings before concluding the probe. Lacson confirmed that the recommendations align with the Senate’s mandate to conduct hearings in aid of legislation and provide oversight on existing laws.
The senator also noted that key figure Elizaldy Co was reported in Sweden on Jan. 15, though he suggested this may be an attempt to mislead trackers.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Senate keen on letting Ombudsman hire private prosecutors”
