Ombudsman Intensifies Lifestyle Checks and Forfeiture Actions Against Illicit Wealth

The Office of the Ombudsman, under Jesus Crispin Remulla, is ramping up lifestyle inspections of public officials and intends to enforce the forfeiture law to reclaim illegally obtained assets. Remulla revealed that their investigation will include a thorough review of officials’ statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth, alongside their income tax returns.

To bolster these efforts, Remulla plans to second personnel from the Department of Finance to gain access to databases from the Bureau of Customs and the Bureau of Internal Revenue. He emphasized the significance of the forfeiture law, Republic Act 1379, which mandates the state to confiscate property acquired beyond a public official’s lawful income during their term, unless proven otherwise.

At the Stratbase Pilipinas Conference 2025, Remulla stated, "We will file forfeiture cases against ill-gotten wealth, and this will be a long-term effort. This is why additional divisions in the Sandiganbayan will be necessary."

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, he admitted the process will be difficult, noting personal repercussions such as strained family connections. "This has really burned some bridges all across, and some individuals have even stopped communicating with my children."

Formerly a Cavite representative and justice secretary, Remulla asserted his commitment to accountability beyond political interests, declaring, "I am no longer involved in politics. Our goal is to thoroughly clean up the system."