THE OFFICE the Ombudsman is a critical pillar in the architecture of governance and accountability. When then Iloilo City councilor Plaridel Nava filed a complaint in June 2023 against officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 over the controversial P680-million Ungka flyover, it was a call for this pillar to stand firm and act decisively. Yet, nearly a year has passed without any significant movement on this complaint. This delay is not just a failure in procedure but a breach in the public trust and an affront to the principles of justice and accountability.
The complaint, centered on allegations of gross negligence, grave misconduct, and violations under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, points to a broader issue of due diligence and the stewardship of public resources. It alleged a failure to ensure the quality of a major infrastructure project funded by taxpayers’ money. The repercussions of this alleged failure were not trivial; the closure of the Ungka flyover caused considerable public inconvenience, illustrating the tangible impact of administrative lapses on the daily lives of citizens.
The mandate of the Ombudsman, as outlined by the Constitution and the Ombudsman Act of 1989, is clear. It is tasked with investigating and prosecuting public officials for violations of laws designed to protect public interest. Administrative Order No. 7 outlines a process for resolving complaints, from evaluation to the recommendation for action, which is designed to ensure that allegations of misconduct are addressed swiftly and justly. The expectation is for complaints to be resolved within a few months.
Prolonged inaction raises serious questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of the Ombudsman’s office. And the implications are far-reaching. First, it undermines the public’s confidence in the institutions meant to safeguard their interests and uphold the rule of law. When citizens see that complaints of significant public concern languish without resolution, it erodes trust in the mechanisms of accountability and governance. Second, it emboldens those who may seek to exploit their positions for personal gain, knowing that the specter of accountability is neither swift nor certain. Finally, it compromises the integrity of our democratic institutions, casting a shadow over the commitment to justice and fairness.
It is imperative for the Office of the Ombudsman to act with urgency and resolve complaints filed before it promptly. The office must embody the principles of justice, accountability, and transparency it is meant to uphold. Delays in addressing grievances, particularly those involving public officials and resources, must not be the norm. Instead, the Ombudsman should set a standard for prompt action, demonstrating to the public and to public servants alike that misconduct and negligence will not be tolerated.
The Ungka flyover complaint is more than just a case file gathering dust; it is a test of the Ombudsman’s resolve and efficiency. The office must rise to the occasion, ensuring that justice is not only done but seen to be done.
