By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has made it clear that the planned filing of criminal charges against Senator Rodante Marcoleta will move forward regardless of public demonstrations organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) in support of the lawmaker.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Remulla emphasized that the anti-graft body’s legal actions remain guided by evidence and the law, dismissing assertions that the case reflects political bias or unequal application of justice.
According to the Ombudsman, public assemblies and expressions of opinion are protected rights, but they will not influence the Office of the Ombudsman’s performance of its constitutional responsibilities.
He likewise rejected accusations that the agency was practicing “selective justice,” maintaining that investigations and prosecutions are undertaken independently and without regard to a person’s political affiliation or public standing.
Remulla reiterated that preparations for the filing of the plunder complaint remain on track, saying the legal process will continue as scheduled.
When asked whether he wished to address the INC, the Ombudsman declined to issue any message, saying his office’s priority is simply to fulfill its mandate under the law.
Supporters of Marcoleta, many of them members of the INC, continued to gather for a second consecutive day near the People Power Monument in Quezon City following the Ombudsman’s announcement that the senator would face plunder, graft, and falsification charges.
Earlier this week, the Ombudsman disclosed that prosecutors had found sufficient basis to pursue criminal charges against Marcoleta in connection with allegations involving P75 million in campaign donations.
Meanwhile, during a separate engagement with participants of the Office of the Ombudsman’s Field Investigator Course in Quezon City, Remulla urged government investigators to remain steadfast in carrying out their duties with professionalism, impartiality, and integrity.
He reminded investigators that public trust depends on the courage of government institutions to hold officials accountable whenever evidence points to wrongdoing, regardless of rank or influence.
Remulla also underscored that the Ombudsman’s mission extends beyond prosecuting misconduct, stressing that the agency plays a crucial role in promoting ethical governance and strengthening confidence in public institutions through fair and objective investigations.
He concluded by reminding investigators that accountability and fidelity to public service remain at the core of the Ombudsman’s constitutional mandate.
ia/xf
