Ombudsman Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla strongly emphasized that the issue of anomalous flood control projects is also an opportunity to push for reforms in government institutions. Speaking at the 7th Global Conference on Sustainable Development Goal 16 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, he acknowledged and shared the corruption challenges facing the country. However, he stressed that despite these challenges, Ombudsman Remulla sees opportunities that the government can pursue.
Accountability and reform
The goal, he said, is not only to hold accountable all involved or corrupt officials but also to pursue reforms that will strengthen the country's institutions. Thus, he called for focusing on concrete actions to promote integrity and bolster public trust.
Ombudsman Remulla clarified that the fight against corruption should not be centered solely on accountability; instead, it should also involve building and strengthening government mechanisms. He emphasized that anti-corruption work is not measured by the number of cases filed but by an effective government serving the people.
Coordination with the judiciary
Meanwhile, Ombudsman Remulla shared that before his trip to the United States, he wrote to Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. He requested the Chief Justice to include the Office of the Ombudsman in the Justice Sector Coordinating Council, believing that the justice system must have strong coordination among government institutions.
