MANILA (October 8) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla as the country’s new Ombudsman, filling the post vacated by retired Ombudsman Samuel Martires in July.
Malacañang announced the appointment on Tuesday, Oct. 7, calling it a move that underscores the administration’s continuing effort to uphold integrity and accountability in government.
“The administration remains firm in its commitment to fight corruption wherever it exists,” the Palace said.
“As Ombudsman, Remulla is expected to uphold transparency, strengthen anti-corruption measures, and ensure that justice is administered fairly and efficiently.”
Remulla, who has served as Justice Secretary since June 2022, will now head the independent constitutional body tasked with investigating and prosecuting erring public officials.
‘No sacred cows’
The Palace stressed that Remulla’s appointment signals a tougher stance against corruption.
“There will be no sacred cows, no exemptions, and no excuses. Public office is a public trust, and those who betray it will be held accountable,” it added.
President Marcos also reaffirmed that transparency, fairness, and the rule of law remain guiding principles in his administration’s pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines).
Reformer at the DOJ
During his tenure at the Department of Justice (DOJ), Remulla led efforts to modernize the justice system, decongest prisons, speed up case resolution, and expand access to free legal aid.
Malacañang cited his “decades of service as a legislator, governor, and lawyer,” describing him as a public servant who earned “broad respect for his integrity and commitment to reform.”
A widely expected appointment
Remulla’s name had been floated for the Ombudsman post for months, but Malacañang consistently declined to confirm the rumors until Tuesday’s announcement.
The Office of the Ombudsman is one of the country’s key accountability institutions, tasked with investigating and prosecuting officials accused of corruption, abuse, or misconduct.
With Remulla’s appointment, the Marcos administration appears intent on projecting a stronger anti-corruption message, even as the public watches how the former justice chief will handle politically sensitive cases in his new role.
