44 I. Case Referral Mechanisms Referral Pathways Cases investigated and resolved by the Commission as Gender Ombud shall be referred to the appropriate agency for investigation and the imposition of the appropriate sanction. The choice of the agency/office to which the Complaint shall be forwarded shall be determined by the jurisdiction of the agency and whether or not a specific case lies within its power to resolve. In cases where different agencies have joint and concurrent jurisdictions, the decision on where to refer the complaint lie within the discretion of the Regional Office, concerned upon due consultation with the Complainant. In such cases, the decision shall be guided by the following: (a) expediency of the chosen referral pathway; (b) choice and preference of the Complainant; (c) availability of legal aid and services in the chosen referral pathway; (d) safety of the complainant and witnesses; (e) elimination of allegations of bias. Even without going through the Commission, the following agencies are clothed with specific jurisdiction to investigate and adjudicate complaints against government employees and elected officials. Complaints for specific violations of the Magna Carta of Women may thus be lodged directly with these agencies. CHR Gender Ombud Guidelines