By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla as the new Ombudsman, Malacañang announced on Tuesday.
Remulla, as the new Ombudsman, is expected to “uphold transparency, strengthen anti-corruption measures, and ensure that justice is administered fairly and efficiently,” according to a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirms that transparency, fairness and the rule of law will remain the guiding principles of this administration’s pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas that truly serves the Filipino people,” the PCO said.
“His (Remulla) decades of service as a legislator, governor, and lawyer have earned him broad respect for his integrity and commitment to public service,” the PCO said.
Remulla succeeded former ombudsman Samuel Martires, whose term ended on July 27.
Before assuming his new post, Remulla served as the 59th secretary of the Department of Justice (DOJ) since June 2022.
The PCO noted that during Remulla’s tenure, the DOJ advanced major reforms to modernize the justice system, decongest prisons, accelerate case resolution, and expand access to legal services.
Remulla’s appointment comes amid mounting corruption concerns over the implementation of government infrastructure projects, particularly flood control programs, which have drawn scrutiny from both the public and lawmakers.
The PCO stressed that the Marcos administration will ramp up its anti-corruption drive.
“The administration remains firm in its commitment to fight corruption wherever it exists,” the PCO said. “There will be no sacred cows, no exemptions, and no excuses. Public office is a public trust, and those who betray it will be held accountable.”
Speaking to Palace reporters, PCO acting Secretary Dave Gomez said Remulla went through a “very stringent” selection process.
Gomez expressed confidence that Remulla would be “very impartial” when he assumes the Ombudsman post.
“As I said, there’s a vetting process, which is provided for by our Constitution and our laws. And he went through that very rigorous process, selection process, which started with the JBC,” he said.
“At the end of the day, after the President receives the recommendation of the JBC, it is still the decision of the President after he receives the shortlist.” (PNA)
