Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized that while accountability is essential to curb corruption, systemic reforms are equally vital to prevent recurring abuses. In his keynote speech at the Sikhay Laban sa Korapsyon forum marking International Anti-Corruption Day, he outlined plans for digitalization in his office by February next year.
In his keynote speech, Remulla stated that accountability alone is insufficient. “Our national conversation cannot stop at accountability. Accountability is mandatory – but it is not enough. If all we do is punish without reforming, then we are merely managing the symptoms of a deeper disease,” he said.
He added, “Accountability corrects the past; reform secures the future. And we cannot accept anything less.” He urged addressing the tougher challenge of fixing systems that enabled corruption, strengthening weak rules, and redesigning processes that failed the public. Without reforms, the same abuses will persist “under new names and new faces.”
Reform measures are expected by February next year, focusing on digitalization. “Corruption thrives where data is weak and paper trails disappear,” Remulla noted. He revealed his office is developing a fully digital ombudsman with integrated systems, digital forensics, AI-supported verification, and secure investigative workflows.
“The ombudsman’s office will refuse to be a record of politics. I tell our people, every day, something must be accomplished. Because corruption wins when the government slows down... Defeat corruption by refusing to waste time,” he further said. To avoid being a “weapon of politics,” the Office of the Ombudsman must build strong partnerships with fiscally autonomous institutions.
Since assuming office in October, Remulla has implemented changes such as lifting restrictions on public access to Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) of officials, reversing his predecessor Samuel Martires' policy. His office has also filed high-profile cases against officials linked to anomalous flood control projects.
On the same day, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) urged educators to heighten political vigilance, defend youth's right to quality education, and join the masses in fighting for accountability and real change. Additionally, CIBAC party-list Rep. Eddie Villanueva called on Congress to pass the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, while Bishop Gerardo Alminaza demanded an anti-dynasty bill to end corruption. Speaker Faustino Dy III also backed the anti-dynasty bill, as mandated by the 1987 Constitution.