Ombudsman denies special treatment for Imee Marcos complaint
Ombudsman Samuel Martires on Friday firmly rejected claims that Senator Imee Marcos received special treatment regarding her complaint about the arrest and transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Martires emphasized that the process followed was impartial and according to office rules.
“We did not give, or I did not, give special treatment to Imee. Ano ito? Masamang timing ba o politika? Hindi naman ako pulitiko eh,” Martires said in a media interview, stressing that politics was not involved.
Details on Imee Marcos complaint and Ombudsman response
Last week, Senator Marcos submitted a chairman’s report indicating her committee uncovered actions by high-ranking officials that likely involve criminal and administrative offenses. Following this, the Ombudsman ordered the accused government officials to respond to the complaint on Tuesday.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla questioned the speed of the Ombudsman’s action and the seeming absence of fact-finding procedures. He also pointed out that what was submitted was a chairman’s report, not a full committee report.
Ombudsman explains complaint handling process
Martires clarified that the complaint filed by Marcos is similar to those previously lodged, such as in the Pharmally case. He added that the Ombudsman removed fact-finding investigation proceedings in April to streamline case handling.
“I’m not giving any special treatment to anyone. Our rule is once a case is filed, it is docketed and raffled to a bureau. Then the bureau assigns a lawyer who is required to order the filing of a counter-affidavit after receiving the complaint,” Martires explained.
Background on Duterte’s arrest and ICC charges
Former President Duterte was arrested on March 11 in Manila after returning from Hong Kong. He was then flown to the ICC in The Hague, Netherlands, where he faces charges of crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s drug war.
The confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025.