It’s interesting how Boying Remulla would spend the next seven years. As Ombudsman, he may be the most powerful public official next only to the President. He can investigate, prosecute, and discipline his peers. He can send anyone to jail or disqualify them from running for public office.
The fact that he can never be removed unless successfully impeached and convicted makes his post not only palatable but also hugely rewarding.
It certainly is a dream come true, and if he plays his cards well, he could wield so much influence and help shape governance. He can even remove anyone who stands in his way or, at the very least, make life difficult for them.
Unlike his predecessors, who used to be members of the judiciary and never dipped their hands in politics, the former Justice Secretary is an accomplished politician, comes from a political dynasty, and has been in the public limelight from the very get-go.
That Remulla is an extremely controversial individual goes without saying.
To be honest, it makes better sense why an Ombudsman should not be a politician. The position is designed for someone who can maintain objectivity and not use power as a platform to dictate political events.
This is not to say that Remulla would willingly allow his office to be used politically, or that he would selectively target only political opponents. But it would not be far-fetched to think that he might, given his political background.
Then there is the issue of conflict of interest. Considering he has political investments, I wonder if these would get in the way once he begins to work. If his siblings and relatives get involved in cases, would he allow the proverbial wheels of justice to grind? Or would he do whatever he can instead to shield them from any possible culpability?
What about his close association with the President? How would that affect his decisions, considering that 2028 is just around the corner? Would he use his office to go after the Vice President, considering that moves to impeach her have failed?
Would he expend so much effort looking into her confidential funds or any case that involves the Dutertes? Or would he use his office to hold anyone accountable, regardless of political color or affiliation?
At any rate, if his recent pronouncements are any indication, he may be able to prove his detractors wrong. By vowing to lift SALN restrictions, review the backlog of cases in the office, and establish measures to ensure faster case processing, he is definitely taking a step in the right direction. But whether or not he would be consistent once everything goes the distance remains to be seen.