NEWLY appointed Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday vowed to conduct a thorough, impartial review of the cases involving Vice President Sara Duterte, including those linked to the alleged misuse of confidential funds.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) following his appointment, Remulla confirmed that the reports and documents related to Duterte’s case are already with the Office of the Ombudsman and will be among the first matters he will tackle once he assumes office on Thursday.
“Nandyan na yan eh. Actually, nandyan naman na sa OMB ang mga report na yan at bubuklatin natin, pag-aaralan at tatanungin natin yung mga may hawak ngayon at yung mga may tungkulin na hawakan yung mga kasong yun bago tayo tumuloy ,” he said.
The Vice President faces scrutiny following audit findings on the use of confidential and intelligence funds during her term as Education secretary.
The issue has sparked public debate on accountability and transparency in high-ranking offices.
Remulla, who succeeds retired Ombudsman Samuel Martires, stressed that no public official will be shielded from investigation under his leadership.
“We must raise the standards and stop the weaponization of the Ombudsman,” he said. “Cases must be supported by solid, airtight evidence — regardless of position or political affiliation.”
While he assured due process for all, Remulla emphasized that his office will not tolerate delay tactics or politically motivated complaints, promising “continuous trials” and faster case resolution once cases reach the courts.
For now, Justice Undersecretary Fredderick Vida will serve as officer-in-charge of the DOJ while Remulla transitions to his new post.
