Ombudsman pushes digitalization reforms in corruption cases

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday said the Office of the Ombudsman is pursuing systemic reforms to address corruption, emphasizing the need to strengthen institutional processes rather than focus solely on individual accountability.

In his keynote speech at the “Sikha Laban sa Korapsyon” event, Remulla said reforms must prevent systems that allow irregularities to persist.

Among the measures being prepared is the full digitalization of the agency’s operations. Remulla said digitalization is necessary to improve data management, strengthen evidence handling, and reduce opportunities for irregularities.

“Corruption thrives where data is weak and paper trails disappear. That is why we are building a fully digital Ombudsman — digital forensics, tamper-proof records, AI-supported verification, and secure investigative workflows,” he said.

He also underscored the role of citizen participation in reporting and documenting alleged irregularities. Remulla cited the “flood scandal” controversy, where members of the public submitted procurement analyses, photos, and geotagged reports.

“This is not government versus corruption. This is government and citizens fighting corruption together,” he said.

Remulla noted that more than 500 young lawyers and engineers have applied to join the agency, which he said reflects an interest in working in public service.

The Ombudsman aims to begin implementing the reforms by February next year.

Remulla assumed the position while investigations into alleged flood control anomalies were ongoing. The Office of the Ombudsman recently filed information before the Sandiganbayan for malversation and graft charges involving the Oriental Mindoro flood control issue, including charges against former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, who remains at large.

The agency also filed graft and malversation charges against contractor Sarah Discaya and others over a separate alleged ghost flood control project in Davao Occidental, which were submitted to the regional trial court of Digos City.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said more cases are being prepared and may be filed before the Sandiganbayan within the week, depending on the completeness and strength of evidence.

“We are not chasing headlines here. What we are after is accountability. These cases do not have the same sets of evidence. There are some cases that are stronger than others,” Clavano said.

He clarified that the filing timeline remains tentative.