Remulla to respond to Ombudsman over Duterte arrest allegations

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he would answer the allegations made by Senator Imee Marcos against him and other officials regarding former President Rodrigo Duterte's arrest before the Office of the Ombudsman.

Remulla questioned the haste with which Sen. Marcos filed her complaint, suggesting it was aimed at gaining publicity rather than following proper committee investigation procedures.

He also criticized the Ombudsman's lack of a fact-finding process and unclear procedures, stating that previous practices included published rules for such matters.

The Ombudsman ordered Justice Secretary Remulla, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, CIDG Chief Nicolas Torre III, and Special Envoy Markus Lacanilao to respond to criminal and administrative charges.

Former President Duterte was arrested on March 11 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and transferred to the ICC in The Hague, where he faces charges of crimes against humanity over his administration's war on drugs.

A confirmation of charges hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025, where prosecutor and defense will present their evidence regarding Duterte's alleged crimes against humanity.