Ex-Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez now NCSC chair — Palace

Former Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez is the new chairperson of the National Commission of Senior Citizens.

This was confirmed by Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro on Wednesday.

Prior to this post, Gutierrez served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

Gutierrez, the country’s first female Ombudsman, held the position for five years before resigning in April 2011.

She resigned right before the start of her impeachment trial in the Senate amid allegations of a low conviction rate and inaction on several graft cases, including those that involved former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who appointed her Ombudsman in December 2005.

In a statement, the NCSC welcomed Gutierrez’s appointment.

“Throughout her distinguished career, Atty. Gutierrez has championed causes related to human rights, women's and children’s protection, indigenous peoples, and anti-trafficking. She has also represented the country in numerous local and international forums focused on justice and human rights,” the NCSC said.

“With a deep commitment to public service and a strong track record in governance, Atty. Gutierrez is poised to lead the Commission with integrity, grace, and competence,” it added.

The NCSC said Gutierrez is the third chairperson of the commission and is expected to serve until 2031.— with Mariel Celine Serquiña/RSJ/VBL, GMA Integrated News