Ombudsman Remulla denies hospitalization rumors, orders NBI probe

MANILA, Philippines — Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday assured the public that his health is in its best condition, while also disputing what he called a false narrative claiming that he was “rushed” for medical care.

Remulla gave reporters a brief update on his health, saying he is doing well and has been taking care of himself by exercising regularly and sleeping early.

This was in response to renewed rumors that he was hospitalized during the holidays, as claimed by several social media pages, most of which have been identified as ardent supporters of the Duterte family, particularly former President Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.

“Of course, ‘an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.’ They were looking for something to turn into a story,” Remulla told reporters during his first press conference of the year.

The chief anti-graft prosecutor, however, said he would not simply let the issue pass. He revealed that he has sought assistance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into the spread of rumors claiming that he was hospitalized.

READ: ‘Fake news’: Ombudsman denies DDS posts that he was hospitalized

“I called for an investigation because we’ve already reached the limit of cyberlibel. I am asking the NBI to look into these allegations, especially their source,” Remulla said.

“Sometimes, you really have to exact justice from people. We can’t just let this pass. This is becoming a pattern—it’s like a dry run for things to come later on,” he added. “If they are doing this now, they will do it again unless we do something.”

He also said he believes the claims about his health are “part of the propaganda machine of certain political quarters.”

Remulla has denied rumors about his health since last week, when they first surfaced. His brother, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, also debunked claims of the alleged hospitalization. /jpv