OMBUDSMAN Jesus Crispin Remulla said that no public official, regardless of rank or position, will be spared from investigation and prosecution when evidence of wrongdoing exists.
Remulla issued the remark as his office prepares to file plunder charges against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta over illegal campaign funds.
Speaking at the Office of the Ombudsman’s Field Investigator Course in Quezon City, 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,” he said.
Remulla said on Wednesday that the filing of the plunder case against Marcoleta will proceed despite the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) rally supporting the embattled senator.
“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.
“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 held a rally near the People Power Monument in Quezon City on Tuesday in support of Marcoleta after the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the filing of plunder, graft and falsification charges against him.
Remulla reminded investigators that the Office of the Ombudsman has a duty not only to prosecute erring public officials but also to reinforce the values of integrity and honor in public service.
Every fair and impartial investigation, Remulla said, helps strengthen public confidence in government institutions and affirms that no one is 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,” he said.
The Office of the Ombudsman has just launched a Field Investigation Course, aimed at strengthening the investigative capabilities of its personnel.
The training, it said, equips investigators with the knowledge, discipline and practical skills necessary to conduct professional, objective and evidence-based investigations in pursuit of justice, accountability and good governance.
