Malacañang has made it clear that it will not interfere in the plan of Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla to review cases involving alleged abuses committed during the implementation of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.
According to Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro, the Office of the Ombudsman is an independent constitutional body and has the freedom to take any action it deems necessary in pursuit of accountability among government officials.
“Ang Ombudsman ay isang independent constitutional body kaya hindi kailangang ipaalam sa Malacañang kung ano ang mga gagawing aksiyon,” Castro said.
She added that the Ombudsman does not need to report to Malacañang, as it has full authority to perform its duties under the law.
Castro also noted that if the Ombudsman requires any assistance, data, or reports in connection with the review of the drug war, it may coordinate directly with law enforcement agencies.