MANILA — Ombudsman Boying Remulla has proposed stricter qualifications for aspiring barangay captains, saying officials leading the country’s smallest government units should meet higher standards of competence and accountability.

Speaking at the 2026 Career Executive Service Lifelong Learning for Leadership Congress (CESCON) at The Manila Hotel on Wednesday, Remulla called for a review of the existing eligibility requirements and the possible introduction of mandatory training or other institutional measures.

“Naniniwala ako na kailangan nating pag-isipan muli ang kwalipikasyon ng ating mga barangay captain. Sa ngayon, para tumakbo bilang punong barangay, sapat nang maging Pilipino, labing-walong taong gulang, marunong bumasa at sumulat, rehistradong botante at residente ng barangay nang isang taon,” Ombudsman Remulla said.

He noted that barangay captains handle public funds, implement government programs, and serve as the first point of contact for residents seeking assistance from the government.

“Pero ang barangay ang unang gobyernong nakikita ng karaniwang Pilipino. Ang kapitan ang humahawak ng pondo ng bayan, nagpapatupad ng mga programa at unang nilalapitan ng tao,” he said.

Remulla clarified that his proposal was not meant to discredit incumbent barangay officials, acknowledging that many perform their duties honestly and effectively.

“Hindi ko minamaliit ang ating mga kapitan, dahil marami sa kanila ang tapat at mahusay. Pero kung merit at fitness ang hinihingi natin sa career service, dapat may pamantayan din ang namumuno sa gobyernong pinakamalapit sa tao,” he stressed.

He urged the government to explore legislation or mandatory training programs that would institutionalize higher eligibility standards for those seeking barangay leadership positions.

“Kailangan nating humanap ng paraan, sa batas man o sa mandatory na training, para gawing institusyonal ang mas mataas na kwalipikasyon para sa sinumang gustong maging barangay captain,” Remulla said.

The Ombudsman’s proposal comes after his office recently suspended and dismissed several barangay officials for grave misconduct involving the alleged misuse of public funds and abuse of authority.

During his address, Remulla also highlighted the importance of merit and competence in government service, drawing comparisons between the qualifications required of career executives and those seeking elected positions at the barangay level.

He reminded career officials that their responsibility to maintain professionalism and continuity in government operations remains regardless of changes in political leadership.

“Presidents come and go. Administrations change. Kayo ang nagpapatakbo ng gobyerno, kahit sino pa ang nakaupo sa Malacañang,” he said.

Remulla delivered the keynote address at CESCON 2026 as the highest-ranking Career Executive Service Eligible (CESE) currently serving in government.