Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said he is determined to finish his job as the country’s chief graft buster, amid claims that he may be eyeing a Supreme Court seat.
Remulla made the statement as he said that it is time to take a close look at the judiciary and address the slow grind of justice and other issues concerning the courts.
He said the problem has been in place for the longest time and has to be brought out in the open, adding that he is speaking up about this because he is not aspiring to join the court.
“I am daring to do this, your honor, because I have no more aspirations. This is the job I want for myself and for the country, to be able to finish this job, your honor. That’s why things that have been left unsaid are being said now, because it has to happen,” he said.
He said he has brought his concerns to Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, his law school classmate, who had at times cautioned him about speaking out.
“But it has to be said. We cannot hold this back anymore. I mean, how many times do you have in your life to serve as Ombudsman and give your critique of what’s happening in society? Because it is a role that was given to us,” he said.
He said he has probably distressed the Chief Justice many times with his remarks, but it has to be done, he added.
Earlier, political strategist Lito Banayo cited “reliable sources” in claiming that Remulla may be eyeing a Supreme Court seat with the impending retirement of Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.
Remulla was appointed Ombudsman only in October 2025 and has a seven-year term.