MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman has begun evaluating a controversial affidavit filed by lawyer Levi Baligod on behalf of 18 alleged former soldiers, but stressed that no formal complaint has been initiated and no investigation has yet commenced, pending a determination of the document’s legal sufficiency and the credibility of its claims.
In a statement, the Ombudsman confirmed receipt of the joint affidavit, which names several high-ranking officials, including seven senators, 26 members of the House of Representatives, and personnel from agencies such as the Bureau of Corrections and the Department of Agriculture.
Baligod alleged in the affidavit that the individuals may have violated Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and Republic Act No. 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
However, the Ombudsman clarified that the submission does not automatically trigger formal proceedings.
“At this stage, the submission is in the nature of a transmittal of an affidavit and is not yet a verified complaint initiating formal proceedings,” the Ombudsman said.
“Consistent with established rules and procedures, the document will undergo the standard evaluation process of the Office. This includes a determination of sufficiency in form and substance, jurisdiction, and the existence of a prima facie basis to proceed, if warranted,” it added.
The Ombudsman emphasized that the evaluation process includes scrutiny not only of the allegations but also of the individuals making them.
“The Office will carefully assess not only the contents of the affidavit but also the credibility of the affiants and the supporting evidence presented,” the statement read.
It also underscored the need to shield its processes from political maneuvering, noting the wide range of public officials mentioned in the affidavit.
“Given the breadth of personalities mentioned and the evident political context in which the allegations have surfaced, the Office emphasizes that it cannot and should not be used as a political arena,” it said.
Among those implicated in the affidavit was Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, whom the affiants accused of involvement in the alleged scheme and of having meetings with International Criminal Court (ICC) personnel during his tenure as justice secretary. Remulla has yet to issue a response.
The Ombudsman said any further action will depend on the outcome of its review, including whether there is sufficient legal basis to elevate the matter into a verified complaint and proceed with a formal investigation./PN
