Ombudsman central office remains closed

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has extended the closure of its main office in Quezon City for two more weeks after several employees contracted COVID-19.

The ombudsman’s central office will remain closed until May 2 to allow for disinfection and prevent the spread of the virus.

Ombudsman Samuel Martires ordered employees to adopt a work-from-home arrangement.

The filing of pleadings, motions, affidavits and other relevant documents will resume on May 3, Martires said.

Last week, 17 employees of the ombudsman’s office were infected with COVID-19. Of the number, seven are staff of Martires.