Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla on Thursday, October 9, expressed confidence that government officials involved in alleged corruption surrounding flood control projects will be held accountable.
“Sigurado ‘yan. Kagaya nitong flood control ghost project, open and shut case ‘yan. Hindi rocket science ‘yan. Pwede talagang panagutin lahat ng involved dyan,” Remulla said in an interview.
He added that investigators are now determining the full extent of the scheme.
“Ang problema lang diyan, how far up the food chain do you go? Hanggang saan tayo merong ebidensya? ‘Yan ang ating pinag-aaralan ngayon,” he noted.
According to Remulla, the Office of the Ombudsman will conduct a motu proprio investigation — an initiative launched on its own — in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The Ombudsman clarified that it remains uncertain when the implicated officials will face punishment. However, he said that if court proceedings progress continuously, a ruling could be expected within three to four months.
“Hihingi tayo ng continuous trial sa korte. At makikipag-dialogue ako sa judiciary tungkol dito para lang naman ang rules of the game malinaw. Ang dapat iwasan dito ang dilatory tactics ng mga defense counsel, usually,” Remulla emphasized.
Remulla underscored the importance of swift and fair proceedings to ensure accountability and restore public trust amid the controversy.