Policy of non-interference in Ombudsman cases

"xxx.

We reiterate this Court’s policy of non-interference with the Ombudsman’s exercise of his constitutionally mandated prosecutory powers.19 We explained the reason for such policy in Ocampo, IV v. Ombudsman:20

The rule is based not only upon respect for the investigatory and prosecutory powers granted by the Constitution to the Office of the Ombudsman but upon practicality as well. Otherwise, the functions of the courts will be grievously hampered by innumerable petitions assailing the dismissal of investigatory proceedings conducted by the Office of the Ombudsman with regard to complaints filed before it, in much the same way that the courts would be extremely swamped if they could be compelled to review the exercise of discretion on the part of the fiscals or prosecuting attorneys each time they decide to file an information in court or dismiss a complaint by a private complainant.

The Court, in the present case, finds no reason to deviate from this long-standing policy.

Xxx."


G.R. No. 144692
January 31, 2005

CELSA P. ACUÑA, petitioner,
vs.
DEPUTY OMBUDSMAN FOR LUZON, PEDRO PASCUA and RONNIE TURLA, (Angeles City National Trade School), respondents.