Manila, Oct. 24 -- The Office of the Ombudsman's alleged "secret" decision reversing the 2016 dismissal order against Senator Joel Villanueva should be thoroughly investigated, Malacanang said Friday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro expressed alarm over the so-called "secret" decision, which was not made public until Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed the dismissal reversal by his predecessor, Samuel Martires who is now retired.

In a press briefing, Castro said an investigation is necessary as it could undermine public confidence in the justice system.

"Kung ito po ay mapapatunayang totoo, ito po ay nakakabahala dahil hindi dapat nagkakaroon ng pagdududa ang taong bayan sa ating justice system considering na ito po ang isa sa ...