Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced on Monday that he intends to apply for the position of Ombudsman, which will soon be vacated by incumbent Samuel Martires, who is scheduled to retire on July 27, marking the end of his constitutionally mandated seven-year term.
Remulla confirmed that he is preparing the necessary requirements for his application to the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) and plans to submit them before Friday.
“Maga-apply ako, maga-apply pa lang, I am submitting my application by Friday, before Friday,” he said. As part of the application process, he also mentioned that he would be undergoing a blood test that day.
When asked about a pending complaint filed by Senator Imee Marcos—concerning the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, in which Remulla and other administration officials are implicated—he expressed confidence that it would not affect his bid.
“The JBC can always evaluate that properly,” he said.
While Remulla did not detail his priorities if appointed Ombudsman, he asserted his capability to take on the role, stating, “I think that I have a lot to offer.”
He added that he has already informed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of his plan to apply, relaying the message through a “mutual contact.”
Although he declined to name anyone, Remulla noted that he has potential successors in mind for the Department of Justice (DOJ) should his application move forward. He assured the public that the department would remain stable in his absence.
“I think that we’re solidly organized here and it can stand on its own if the succession is okay,” he said.