THE Philippines’ anti-graft chief said on Monday that his office will set up a dedicated reporting channel allowing local and foreign investors to report corruption and regulatory abuse by public officials.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin C. Remulla outlined upcoming reforms following his inaugural year in office, saying his first twelve months were dominated by sweeping investigations into the flood control corruption scandal, which has resulted in 39 cases filed in court.
He said the next year will focus on recovering stolen public funds and dismantling corrupt practices that stifle economic expansion, noting that extortion forces investors away.
“We will create an Investment Ombudsman. It will be a dedicated channel where investors, big or small, local or foreign, can report any public official who demands a bribe, sits on a permit, or abuses regulatory power, and know that this office will act,” Mr. Remulla said during a livestreamed event.
“Accountability was the focus of our first year. Recovery will be the focus of the next,” he said, adding that removing graft will help lower business expenses and generate employment.
The Ombudsman has yet to specify an official expected timeline for the new anti-graft channel.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. swore in Mr. Remulla as Ombudsman in October last year. Prior to his appointment, he served as secretary of the Department of Justice. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking