Palace defends appointment of Remulla as Ombudsman despite VP Sara Duterte's objection

Malacañang dismissed Vice President Sara Duterte's objection to the appointment of Jesus Crispin Remulla as the new Ombudsman, stating that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has confidence in his decision.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the Vice President is not the current president, thus her opinion on the appointment is speculative and a "dream that will not happen for now."

Castro asserted that President Marcos Jr. is committed to fighting corruption and would not appoint individuals who have stolen public funds.

Vice President Duterte had expressed willingness to submit her Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth to the Ombudsman but stated she would not have appointed Remulla if she were president.

Remulla's appointment drew criticism from former President Rodrigo Duterte's camp due to Remulla's alleged involvement in the arrest and detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) of the former chief executive.

Jesus Crispin Remulla replaces Samuel Martires, whose term as Ombudsman concluded in July.

The administration reiterated its commitment to combating corruption, with Remulla expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Ombudsman's office.

Malacañang also stated that the President has yet to announce a new Secretary of Justice to replace Remulla at the Department of Justice.