Remulla Pushes On With Ombudsman Bid Despite Disqualification Claims

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla’s bid for Ombudsman faces a major roadblock. Conflicting reports emerge: Remulla insists he’s still in the running, despite alleged disqualification by the JBC due to a Duterte-related case currently before the very office he seeks. This clash of narratives raises serious questions about transparency and potential political influence in the selection process.

MANILA, Philippines – Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla remains resolute in his pursuit of the Ombudsman position, defying reports of his disqualification by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC). This unexpected development throws a wrench into the already complex selection process, raising questions about transparency and the potential for political maneuvering.

Remulla’s unwavering stance, communicated directly to reporters, sharply contrasts with an Abogado.com.ph report alleging his removal from the candidate list, along with PCSO chair Felix Reyes. The report, citing an anonymous source familiar with the JBC proceedings, attributes Remulla’s alleged disqualification to a pending case concerning the arrest and transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to The Hague. The irony is palpable: the case is currently under review by the very office Remulla seeks to lead.

The anonymous source further claims that Remulla informed DOJ officials of his withdrawal from the candidacy. This assertion, however, directly contradicts Remulla’s public statement. The source also speculates on potential successors, suggesting Undersecretaries Raul Vasquez or Jesse Hermogenes Andres as possible replacements should Remulla have been appointed. The conflicting narratives leave the public grappling with uncertainty and raise concerns about the accuracy of information circulating regarding the JBC’s decision-making process.

Adding another layer of complexity, Senator Imee Marcos filed charges of graft, grave misconduct, usurpation of judicial functions, and arbitrary detention against Remulla and other officials in March. These charges, related to Duterte’s arrest, were filed with the Ombudsman, highlighting the intricate web of legal and political entanglements surrounding Remulla’s candidacy.

The Ombudsman position, vacated by Samuel Martires’ retirement on July 27, 2025, has become a focal point of intense scrutiny. The conflicting reports surrounding Remulla’s candidacy underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability within the JBC’s selection process. The public deserves a clear and unambiguous explanation of the events leading to the alleged disqualification, and the JBC must address these concerns swiftly and decisively.

The ongoing uncertainty casts a shadow over the integrity of the selection process and raises questions about the potential influence of political considerations. The situation warrants close monitoring as the process unfolds, with the public anxiously awaiting clarification and a resolution that upholds the principles of fairness and transparency. The coming days will be critical in determining the future direction of this high-stakes appointment.

Related