Remulla: Preliminary probe on flood control projects starts this week

The preliminary investigation (PI) on flood control project cases in Oriental Mindoro and Bulacan is set to begin this week, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla on Monday, 20 October 2025.

The Oriental Mindoro and Bulacan flood control projects comprise the first batch of cases filed with the Office of the Ombudsman. According to Remulla, at least six of these projects will now undergo preliminary investigation.

Remulla said other flood control-related issues are also under review by his office, including the restitution of funds in controversial cases. He noted that the Ombudsman plans to consult with the judiciary on how to best handle such matters.

“We will talk to the Sandiganbayan here, and probably seek the advice also of the senior associate justice of the Supreme Court on the best way to treat cases where restitution is possible,” Remulla said in Filipino.

He explained that he is considering discussions with the Supreme Court to find the “right tune in the interest of justice” in retrieving lost public funds.

“Because if we are going to spend years on prosecution, it is better that the nation recovers what should be returned — that is truly what is important. But, of course, those who should be penalized, let’s penalize them. Those who really ignored the law, they must surely be held accountable,” Remulla said in Filipino.

The Sandiganbayan has reported that it is drafting new rules to speed up the preparation and filing of cases with the Ombudsman against personalities involved in the flood control issue.

According to Remulla, he is aware of these developments and said they may be related to the ultimus trial of such cases. He added that he has been in discussions with the Sandiganbayan regarding issues of jurisdiction.

“The first day that I went into the office to be briefed, she was one of those who briefed me — Justice General Geraldine Econg — about the Sandiganbayan and the problems that are there, as cases of jurisdiction will be problematic also,” Remulla said.

“We will ask them to advise us properly,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has also assigned a representative to formally assist the Ombudsman’s office in completing documentary requirements for the investigation involving Curlee and Sarah Discaya.

“‘Yung mga dokumentong ganyan mahirap hingin isa-isa kung wala ka talagang contact in charge loob ng opisina ng DPWH,” Remulla said.