Justice Secretary Urges Swift Ombudsman Case Resolution
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday announced his plan to request the Office of the Ombudsman to promptly resolve the administrative and criminal cases filed against him. These complaints stem from the controversial turn-over of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands.
As one of the 17 candidates vying for the top Ombudsman post, Remulla must secure a clearance before the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) proceeds with its final deliberations. The four-word keyphrase “Office of the Ombudsman” is central to this process since the Ombudsman’s decision will determine his eligibility.
Clearance Requirement for Ombudsman Appointment
According to officials, the Office of the Ombudsman must dismiss the complaints against Remulla before issuing any clearance. Supreme Court spokesperson Atty. Camille Ting clarified, “Once the case is dismissed, the Ombudsman will be able to issue the clearance.” Without this clearance, Remulla will not be included in the shortlist of candidates submitted to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Background of the Complaints
The complaints emerged after Senator Imee Marcos requested the Office of the Ombudsman on May 2 to investigate Jesus Crispin Remulla, his brother Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and three others. This followed the committee on foreign affairs’ probe into the legality of Duterte’s arrest and subsequent transfer to The Hague.
Shortly after, the Ombudsman ordered the Remulla brothers, former Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Chief Nicolas Torre III, and Special Envoy for Transnational Crimes Markus Lacanilao to submit counter-affidavits. The allegations include graft, usurpation of authority, grave misconduct, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
Remulla’s Response and Next Steps
Remulla told community members that the case remains pending. He emphasized his intention to file a motion to expedite the resolution of the complaint. His interview with the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) took place amid these ongoing legal challenges.
Constitutional Timeline for Ombudsman Appointment
Under Article XI, Section 9 of the 1987 Constitution, the President has 90 days from the vacancy to appoint a new Ombudsman. The term of the previous Ombudsman, Samuel Martires, ended on July 27, creating urgency in filling the position.
Local leaders noted that Remulla’s ability to secure clearance from the Office of the Ombudsman is crucial for his consideration among the final candidates. The decision will have significant implications for the leadership of the anti-corruption body.
For more news and updates on the Office of the Ombudsman, visit Filipinokami.com.
