JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday vowed to uphold impartiality and transparency if appointed Ombudsman, stressing that the anti-graft body must not be weaponized for politics.

Speaking to reporters after his Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) interview, Remulla said he would work to restore public trust in the Office of the Ombudsman by promoting greater citizen involvement, stricter scrutiny of Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN), and lifestyle checks not only on government officials but also on their families.

“The Ombudsman has to be fair. It should never be weaponized,” Remulla said.

He said lifestyle checks initiated by citizens would be a more reliable safeguard against corruption, noting that community vigilance is “a better ally” than internal audits alone.

On the controversial issue of SALN access, Remulla expressed support for greater media access with safeguards to prevent misuse.

“It should not be used for vilification or blackmail,” he said, suggesting measures such as redactions and non-disclosure of sensitive details.

Remulla pledges transparency and impartiality as Ombudsman

He added that he would consider reversing restrictions imposed by outgoing Ombudsman Samuel Martires once in office.

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Pressed on Sen. Imee Marcos’ complaint against him over the transfer of former president Rodrigo Duterte to the Netherlands to face International Criminal Court proceedings, Remulla said the matter was still pending before the Supreme Court.

He confirmed he would file a motion to resolve the case “as soon as possible” but declined to comment on reports that the acting Ombudsman was under pressure to dismiss it.

Asked why he was seeking the post, Remulla said his goal was to bring leadership and stability to the institution.

“It’s our job to keep the country stable, to prevent violence, to prevent untoward acts. That’s what I want to continue,” he said.