Ombudsman: 209 flood control cases under probe

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has announced that 209 complaints involving anomalous flood control projects are undergoing fact-finding investigation.

The figure is higher than the 124 cases investigated by the ombudsman last year.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla made the announcement during the Southeast Asian Ombudsman Forum (SEAOF) hosted by the Philippines from June 16 to 18.

Remulla’s statement was recorded on video since he is currently in New York for the 7th Global Conference on Sustainable Development at the UN headquarters.

In his message, Remulla admitted that his office is “at the forefront” of one of the most significant challenges: the flood control scandal, which he said “involves serious concerns on public accountability, transparency and the protection of public resources.”

To date, the ombudsman has acted on a substantial number of complaints. In 2025 alone, 124 complaints underwent fact-finding investigation, 36 of which proceeded to preliminary probe or administrative adjudication.

“This year, several flood control cases are advancing to formal proceedings, with four cases filed before the courts,” Remulla said.

However, he said that beyond the numbers lies a “deeper responsibility to strengthen public trust and demonstrate that accountability institutions can respond with independence, fairness, professionalism and resolve.”

He admitted that the ombudsman’s work needs the help of regional platforms such as the SEAOF, which welcomed its newest member, Sarawak Ombudsman Dator Shrey Abdul Gafur Sharif.

Remulla also thanked the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for continuing its partnership with SEAOF.