MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman maintained Tuesday that its planned filing of plunder charges against Sen. Rodante Marcoleta is not aimed at any individual but forms part of its continuing efforts to fight corruption.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano rejected suggestions that the case was selectively pursued, saying the agency is focused on strengthening integrity in government through impartial law enforcement.
Speaking over Radyo Pilipinas, Clavano said the Ombudsman’s actions are intended to help improve the country’s institutions and are not influenced by political considerations.
The anti-graft agency is preparing to bring plunder charges before the Sandiganbayan against Marcoleta over allegations that he received PHP75 million in campaign funds from former lawmaker Mike Defensor, Aristotle Viray, and Joseph Espiritu.
Investigators said the funds were allegedly omitted from both Marcoleta’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) and his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE).
Clavano explained that any decision on the issuance of an arrest warrant will ultimately be made by the Sandiganbayan once the case is filed.
He added that the alleged receipt of the campaign contributions occurred while Marcoleta was still serving as a congressman ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
The complaint stemmed from Marcoleta’s public acknowledgment that he had accepted PHP75 million in campaign contributions.
Beyond the Marcoleta case, Clavano said the Ombudsman is also finalizing complaints against contractors and other individuals suspected of involvement in questionable flood control projects.
He said informing the public about these pending cases is consistent with the agency’s transparency policy.
According to Clavano, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla also revealed during Monday’s press briefing that several long-running investigations involving contractors are expected to proceed to preliminary investigation in the coming weeks.
