Ombudsman: Most cases filed now political

With the 2025 midterm polls approaching, the Office of the Ombudsman declared on Thursday that 90 percent of cases filed before his office recently are now political.

Ombudsman Samuel Martires made the pronouncement in reaction to recent cases filed before his office, including the graft charges against Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro and his wife, First District Representative Maan Teodoro.

Martires stressed that his office closely scrutinizes these cases for probable cause and immediately dismisses those without basis.

“We analyze these cases to determine their validity, and those without merit are dismissed,” Martires said.

Meanwhile, the Marikina mayor assured that he will fully cooperate with the Ombudsman’s investigation on the case filed by a certain Rico Mariano once he receives a copy of the complaint.

“Once we receive the official copy of the complaint filed before the Ombudsman, we will formally respond to all accusations made against us,” Teodoro said.

“Anyone can file a complaint, but it is our duty to address any allegations with transparency and in accordance with due process,” he added.

Media reports indicated that Mariano filed the complaint on 23 January, but the information was released to the media only on Monday, 10 March.