The Office of the Ombudsman has dismissed the cases filed by Senator Imee Marcos against Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, clearing a major hurdle in the latter’s bid for a potential judicial post.
Remulla himself confirmed the Ombudsman’s ruling on Friday, September 21, saying the complaints had no merit. The charges stemmed from the government’s controversial decision to hand over detained former President Rodrigo Duterte to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Senator Marcos complained in May 2025, accusing Remulla and several other officials of arbitrary detention and violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. The case raised eyebrows in political and legal circles, given the sensitive nature of Duterte’s ICC proceedings and the split opinions within government regarding the Philippines’ engagement with the international tribunal.
The Ombudsman’s dismissal carries significant implications for Remulla’s career. Just earlier this month, Supreme Court spokesperson Camille Ting noted that his pending case had prevented him from securing the necessary Ombudsman clearance—a prerequisite for consideration by the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC). With the dismissal, Remulla is now in a position to obtain that clearance and move forward with potential nominations for higher office.
However, sources within the JBC clarified on Friday afternoon that they have not yet received any official clearance from the Ombudsman. Until that document is formally transmitted, Remulla’s application remains technically incomplete.
Senator Marcos, meanwhile, signaled she is not backing down. In a statement, she confirmed filing a motion for reconsideration, insisting her case deserves further review. “I believe there are grounds for accountability, and I will continue to pursue them,” Marcos said, adding that she would respect whatever final decision is reached.
The development comes at a politically charged moment, as divisions persist over the Duterte handover and the country’s broader relationship with the ICC. For Remulla, the Ombudsman’s ruling represents an important step toward clearing his name and strengthening his bid for a future post.
Observers note that the outcome of Marcos’ motion for reconsideration—and whether the JBC ultimately accepts Remulla’s clearance—will determine the lasting impact of this dismissal.