Who is Merceditas Gutierrez Husband? Meet the Husband of the Philippines’ First Female Ombudsman

Merceditas “Mercy” Gutierrez, the first female Ombudsman of the Philippines, is once again in the spotlight after being appointed as the new Chair of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC). Her remarkable public service career continues to draw attention — but many are also curious about her personal life, especially her husband and family.

Who is Merceditas Gutierrez? Early Life and Background

Born in Samal, Bataan, Merceditas Navarro Gutierrez built a strong foundation in both education and law. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the College of the Holy Spirit, Manila, and later obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree from Ateneo de Manila University. She also studied International Law and Development in The Hague, Netherlands, further expanding her expertise in governance and justice.

Who is Merceditas Gutierrez’s Husband?

Merceditas Gutierrez is married to Jesus N. Gutierrez of Malvar, Batangas. Their marriage has been a long and stable one, built on mutual respect and shared values. The couple is blessed with four children — Jesus II, Michael, Dino, and Margarita — who have mostly stayed out of the public spotlight.

Despite her demanding career, Merceditas has always expressed the importance of family in her life. She has credited her husband for being her source of strength throughout her decades of public service.

A Trailblazing Career in Public Service

Merceditas Gutierrez began her government career in 1974 as a Presidential Legal Officer at the Office of the President. She later joined the Department of Justice (DOJ) in 1983 and worked her way up to become the Acting Secretary of Justice in 2004.

In December 2005, she made history as the Philippines’ first female Ombudsman, appointed by then-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. During her tenure, she handled several corruption and graft cases, earning the reputation of a strong and determined legal leader.

Challenges and Resignation

In April 2011, Merceditas Gutierrez resigned from her position as Ombudsman just before her Senate impeachment trial was scheduled to begin. The charges were related to alleged inaction on certain graft cases, including some involving former President Arroyo. Her resignation ended the proceedings, but she continued to serve in various capacities afterward.

Recent Appointment as NCSC Chair

Earlier this month, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Merceditas Gutierrez as the Chairperson of the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC). Her appointment was confirmed shortly after her resignation from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Board of Trustees, where she had served with distinction.

Before stepping down, she and two other GSIS trustees had called for the resignation of GSIS President Jose Arnulfo “Wick” Veloso, citing alleged financial losses due to investment mismanagement worth ₱8.8 billion.

Advocacy and Legacy

Throughout her career, Merceditas Gutierrez has been active in addressing issues related to human rights, women and children, indigenous peoples, and anti-human trafficking. Her long service record and multiple appointments show her dedication to public welfare and justice reform in the Philippines.

Her new role at the NCSC allows her to continue serving — this time focusing on improving the welfare and rights of senior citizens across the country.