Manila: Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla dismissed the kidnapping complaint filed against him and other officials by Davao City Acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte before the Office of the Ombudsman, labeling it as ‘forum shopping’ and a ‘political spectacle’. The complaint is linked to the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his transfer to the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention facility in The Hague, Netherlands, which occurred in March.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla described the ongoing case as an organized effort to undermine his candidacy for the position of Ombudsman. He expressed that the timing of the complaint was intended to hinder his ability to fulfill the Judicial and Bar Council’s (JBC) requirements, as applicants must provide a certification from the Office of the Ombudsman confirming no pending cases before the deliberation period ends.
Remulla conveyed confidence in overcoming the political challenges, stating, “I think we can still prevail, I think the truth is on my side.” He urged the JBC to recognize the political motivations behind the complaint and emphasized the need for a strong leader in the Ombudsman position, free from political spectacle.
Previously, charges of arbitrary detention and violation of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Remulla were dismissed by the Ombudsman. These charges were filed by Senator Imee Marcos and were also related to the arrest and transfer of Duterte to the ICC. Remulla noted that although a clearance was expected, Marcos filed a motion for reconsideration.
Despite the legal and political hurdles, Remulla remains committed to the application process, acknowledging the JBC’s upcoming deliberations and his need to submit the necessary documentation soon.