Ombudsman Remulla warns gov't officials vs 'selective transparency' in SALNs
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin C. Remulla warned public officials against “selective transparency” in their Statements of Assets Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) as doing so will only “breed suspicion.”
One of the first things Remulla looked into when he assumed office was to reopen the public’s access to SALNs.
“This decision is guided by a simple principle: the public has a legitimate right to know how those in government acquire and manage their wealth,” he said.
He pointed out: “Transparency in this area is not a slogan -- it is a safeguard against corruption and a deterrent to abuse of power.”
He then called on different government agencies that keep official copies of SALNs -- such as the Civil Service Commission, the Office of the President, Congress, the Judiciary, and local government units -- to align their practices with the policy of transparency.
He expressed hopes that his call for transparency will not be misinterpreted as politicking, as he said that public service is all about accountability.
Especially now when the public’s trust is shaky and the integrity of public institutions is being tested, Remulla said the best way to rebuild confidence is through openness.
“The public deserves proof, not promises, and that integrity still has a place in public service,” he stressed.