Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla made his first press appearance of 2026 on Thursday, saying that his office was focused on the anomalous flood control projects but “no names” could be divulged yet as the multiple preliminary investigations continue.

“Let’s just lay off the names because it’s being misinterpreted. Some people want to push the issue and even set a date. I will not do that. We’re done with that. I think we’ve learned our lesson,” Remulla said.

He confirmed that current and former senators were being eyed for preliminary investigations but would not disclose any names.

“We cannot give any dates or commitments. What you see is us working every day to make sure justice is obtained for the Filipino people,” he said.

Remulla noted that the Department of Justice was currently conducting preliminary investigations of Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada and former senator Bong Revilla. As a former DoJ secretary, he said keeping the probes within the DoJ ensures they would receive full attention and not be sidetracked.

“Passing cases to other offices can divert attention. It’s important that we don’t cut off our focus on every case we’re studying,” he added.

On the controversial “Cabral files,” Remulla said the computer and files turned over by the late former DPWH undersecretary Catalina Cabral remain sealed as his office studies the proper procedure to open them.

“The DPWH turned it over to us and we will look into it. But no one should claim to know what’s in it because only the computer itself can verify the truth,” Remulla said.

He said he will be meeting with DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and Commission on Audit Chair Famaliel Cordoba to determine the process for reviewing the files.

Remulla also addressed the false information recently being spread about his health on social media. He has asked the NBI to investigate the origin of the fake reports.

“I am having this investigated because we’ve reached the limit of cyberlibel. Let’s see where this goes,” he said.

Despite the rumors, the Ombudsman assured the public he is healthy and fit to work.

“I work out every day, sleep early, and wake up early,” he said, noting that the social media attacks appear to be part of an orchestrated campaign by political groups.

“An idle mind is the devil’s workshop. There’s really a campaign going on. I don’t know for what purpose, but I think it’s part of the propaganda machine of some political parties,” Remulla said.