TACLOBAN CITY – In a bid to make government services more accessible to residents in remote parts of Northern Samar, the Office of the Ombudsman has inaugurated its newest Ombudsman Assistance Center (OAC) at the provincial capitol in Catarman.
Formally opened on Tuesday, July 1, the facility is designed to simplify the filing of complaints, Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs), and applications for Ombudsman clearances — services crucial for public officials and ordinary citizens alike.
The center will serve as a satellite office for walk-in clients, significantly reducing the need to travel to the main regional office in Tacloban City or to Metro Manila.
During the launch, Vice Governor Clarence Dato lauded the initiative and paid tribute to Ombudsman Samuel Martires, a native of Palapag, Northern Samar, who is set to retire on July 27 after completing his seven-year term.
Calling Martires “our own Cinderella Man,” Dato praised his rise from humble beginnings to becoming the country’s top anti-graft official, saying his life story is a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Ibabao, the northern part of Samar.
“His advocacy now finds fruition in this humble office — a testament of his love for public service that soars the lofty Ibabao skies,” Dato said.
Also present at the ceremony were Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan and Representative Edwin Marino Ongchuan, who both expressed full support for the establishment of the center and its role in promoting transparency and good governance.
The Catarman center is the second of its kind in Samar Island, following the opening of a similar facility in Calbayog City last March 28.
The main regional Ombudsman Office remains located in Tacloban City.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
