President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the new Ombudsman of the Republic of the Philippines, replacing Hon. Samuel R. Martires, whose term ended in July.
Remulla has served as the 59th Secretary of Justice since June 2022, leading reforms to modernize the justice system, decongest prisons, and improve access to legal services. The Palace described him as a public servant with integrity and decades of experience as a lawmaker, governor, and lawyer.
However, his appointment drew public attention because of pending cases filed against him by Davao City Acting Mayor Baste Duterte and Senator Imee Marcos. Duterte accused Remulla in connection with the alleged kidnapping of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his supposed referral to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Senator Marcos also filed a separate case against him.
As the country’s chief graft watchdog, Remulla is expected to uphold transparency, strengthen anti-corruption efforts, and ensure accountability in public office.
President Marcos said his administration remains committed to fighting corruption, reiterating that “there will be no sacred cows, no exemptions, and no excuses.”
