Ombudsman denies special treatment for Marcos' complaint

Ombudsman Samuel Martires denied giving special treatment to Senator Imee Marcos regarding her complaint about the arrest and transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court.

Martires stated that his office's actions were similar to those taken for complaints filed by Senators Richard Gordon and Risa Hontiveros on the Pharmally controversy, emphasizing that cases are now immediately assigned for preliminary investigations and counter-affidavits without fact-finding investigation.

Last week, Marcos submitted a chairman's report which uncovered potential criminal and administrative offenses committed by high-ranking government officials. The Ombudsman subsequently ordered respondents to answer the complaint.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla questioned the haste and lack of fact-finding procedures but Martires clarified that this was in line with new rules implemented in April to expedite case processing.

Duterte's confirmation of charges hearing at the ICC is scheduled for September 23, 2025.