(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday said the filing of the plunder case against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta will proceed despite the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) rally in his support, stressing that “nothing has changed.”
During an ambush interview in Pasay City, Remulla said the office would continue carrying out its mandate despite claims of selective justice raised during an INC rally on Tuesday.
“There is no such thing as selective justice. It is their freedom of expression, but it’s a wrong premise. There’s no selective justice in this country when it comes to the Ombudsman,” Remulla said.
He stressed that the rally would not affect the filing of the case.
“Nothing is changing, nothing has changed. We will file, we will file,” he said.
Asked whether he had a message for the INC, Remulla replied; “I have no message. As for me, we will do our job.”
The INC continues its rally for a second straight day near the People Power Monument in Quezon City for Marcoleta, a member, after the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the filing of plunder, graft and falsification charges against him.
Speaking at the Office of the Ombudsman's Field Investigator Course in Quezon City on Wednesday, Remulla urged investigators to remain steadfast in carrying out their duties, highlighting the vital role they play in correcting misconduct and preserving the integrity of government service.
“No matter the official is high-ranking or low-ranking, we will be affected if we make mistakes. If someone strays from the path, we need to show up and correct the winding path" Remulla said.
Remulla also reminded Ombudsman investigators that the Office of the Ombudsman has a duty not only to investigate erring public officials but also to reinforce the values of integrity and honor in public service.
Every fair and impartial investigation, Remulla said, helped strengthen public confidence in government institutions and affirms that no one was above the law.
"It is our duty that we are accountable for and have sworn to look into everything. We must align the mindset of the people regarding and related to the resilience of spirit as a servant of the government." Remulla said.
