New era for the Office of the Ombudsman
In a move that signals urgency and reform, newly sworn Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla pledged to accelerate the pace of case resolution and to sharpen the investigative focus on alleged corruption within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the contested Pharmally deals. Speaking to reporters shortly after his oath, Remulla outlined a plan to address the backlog and to establish robust measures that will move cases through the system more efficiently.
Remulla said the first order of business is to review the existing backlog and implement policies that streamline processes without compromising due process. “We have to look at the pending cases and determine how the system is running,” he stated. “We will put policies in place so that everything moves efficiently.”
Targeted investigations: DPWH and the Pharmally issue
The Ombudsman identified anomalies in the DPWH as an “emergency situation,” explaining that the office will engage in intensive case-building to ensure well-prepared files reach Sandiganbayan and regional trial courts. He emphasized the need for complete evidence before filing and for trials to proceed without unwarranted delays. Remulla even discussed collaboration with Acting Chief Justice Marvic Leonen to push for continuous trial procedures to curb procedural holdups.
On the Pharmally matter, which centers on pandemic-era procurement practices investigated by the Senate, Remulla signaled a renewed review. “We’ll look into it because it seems to have been forgotten,” he said. “Such cases shouldn’t fade away. Many people believe wrongdoing occurred, and we have to revisit that.” The intent is clear: no case should be left to linger without the possibility of resolution when the evidence warrants it.
Transparency, SALN access, and data safeguards
Addressing public concerns about transparency, Remulla commented on calls from Senator Ronald dela Rosa to release the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) of Vice President Sara Duterte. He asserted that SALNs would be accessible while respecting privacy safeguards. “All SALNs will be handled the same way. We’ll redact what needs to be redacted and require undertakings from requesters to ensure information isn’t used irresponsibly,” he explained. He stressed that information is powerful, but with power comes responsibility.
Institutional capacity and witness protection
Born from his background as a former Justice secretary, Remulla announced plans to strengthen the Ombudsman’s institutional capacity by creating an “Ombudsman Marshal” unit modeled after the Supreme Court’s Judiciary Marshals. The goal is to safeguard witnesses and preserve the integrity of case documents, ensuring that crucial evidence does not disappear and case files remain secure during investigations.
Commitment to accountability across the board
Remulla underscored that investigations into large-scale projects—such as the ₱1-trillion flood control initiatives under scrutiny for alleged ghost projects—will continue impartially, regardless of who might be implicated. “The concern is the case, not the person. Whether it involves senators, high officials, or anyone else, we will follow the evidence wherever it leads,” he declared. He also indicated initiatives to tighten regulatory accountability for public utilities and to address online child exploitation as part of a broader reform agenda designed to improve daily life for Filipinos.
Closing remarks and future directions
In his closing remarks, Remulla warned corrupt officials that the Ombudsman would adopt a higher standard of accountability. “When information comes in, we will investigate, call everyone with the power to disclose, and use that information in court to prosecute those who abuse their responsibilities,” he stated. While he has not yet discussed with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who will succeed him as Secretary of Justice, he affirmed that talks would occur soon. The overarching message is clear: the Philippines’ new Ombudsman intends to pursue reform with legal rigor, unwavering integrity, and a renewed commitment to public service.
