Under Former Ombudsman Samuel Martires, access to SALNs was constrained: requests required notarized consent by the officials involved, or a court order, which critics warned created undue barriers to accountability.

Remulla’s new directive effectively reverses those limits, restoring a more open regime of public access to SALNs, including those deemed off-limits under the earlier policy.

The policy reversal has been heralded by transparency advocates, who see it as a reset for accountability norms under the Ombudsman’s office.

“We cannot build trust in government if we hide information from the people,” Remulla said. “Public service requires accountability, and accountability starts with openness.” he added.

Journalists, civic watchdogs, and public interest groups now regain the right to access SALNs without those procedural hurdles.

This can bolster investigative reporting on public officials’ financial disclosures and possible red flags.

While some may view this as intrusive, Remulla’s decision underscores that SALN disclosures are not just a bureaucratic formality, but also a public accountability tool.

The restoration of access aligns with broader calls for government transparency and could help rebuild public confidence in institutions tasked with oversight and anti-corruption.

On the other hand, some officials and observers may raise concerns over privacy protections or procedural safeguards under the new policy.