Boying Remulla Takes Helm as Ombudsman, Faces Scrutiny Over Independence

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the new Ombudsman of the Republic of the Philippines, succeeding Samuel Martires, who completed his term in July.

Remulla, who has served as the 59th Secretary of Justice since June 2022, brings extensive experience as a legislator, provincial governor, and lawyer. Under his leadership, the Department of Justice pursued reforms to modernize the justice system, decongest prisons, speed up case resolution, and improve legal access.

Malacañang emphasized that Remulla’s appointment followed the constitutional process and thorough vetting by the Judicial and Bar Council. “There’s a very stringent process required under our Constitution, and Secretary Remulla went through that process,” said Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez, expressing confidence in Remulla’s impartiality.

The appointment, however, drew mixed reactions:

• Criticism and suspicion came from Davao City Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, who described the move as a “mockery of the Constitution,” alleging it was intended to protect those in power.

• Senator Imee Marcos earlier claimed the appointment was politically strategic to weaken Vice President Sara Duterte’s 2028 presidential bid.

• Akbayan Rep. Perci Cendaña urged Remulla to immediately release officials’ SALNs and act on flood control corruption cases.

• Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima stressed that Remulla must prove his independence and “protect the Filipino people, not his relatives or political allies.”

  
  

President Marcos reiterated his administration’s anti-corruption stance, asserting that transparency, fairness, and the rule of law will guide efforts toward a Bagong Pilipinas.

Remulla’s assumption as Ombudsman marks a pivotal moment for public accountability amid growing public anger over alleged corruption scandals.