Case Digest: Ledesma v. CA

ISSUE:  Whether or not the Ombudsman has encroached into the power of the Bureau of Immigration over immigration matters. 

FACTS:  An investigation was requested on alleged anomalies surrounding the extension of the Temporary Resident Visas of two foreign nationals. Graft Investigator resolved the administrative case suspending petitioner for a year. The criminal case was dismissed. 

DECISION:  No. The Ombudsman has not encroached into the power of the Bureau of Immigration over immigration matters. 

RATIO DECIDENDI:  The creation of the Office of the Ombudsman is a unique feature of the 1987 Constitution. The Ombudsman and his deputies, as protectors of the people, are mandated to act promptly on complaints filed in any form or manner against officers or employees of the government, or any of its subdivisions, agency or instrumentality.