Photo credit: Senate PH

Philippine Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has confirmed that he met with former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, retired police general Nicolas Torre III, and two investigators from the International Criminal Court at his residence in Makati last year — a meeting he insists was part of his official responsibilities at the time.

Remulla said the meeting took place shortly after the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his transfer to The Hague for ICC pre-trial proceedings.

Remulla, who was then serving as the country’s Justice Secretary, stressed that there was nothing improper about the encounter. He explained that his role at the Department of Justice gave him direct oversight of the Witness Protection Program, which, he said, required coordination with international investigators and prosecutors when dealing with witnesses.

The Ombudsman added that while he has publicly rejected other allegations about supposed secret coordination with ICC personnel — including claims raised in an affidavit by former Marines — the Makati meeting with Trillanes, Torre, and ICC staff was legitimate and connected to his official duties.

Remulla’s acknowledgment comes at a time of intense public discussion over the Philippines’ involvement in the ICC case against Duterte. Hearings on the confirmation of charges continue in The Hague, while debates over jurisdiction, cooperation, and accountability remain prominent in the country.

Despite the political storm surrounding the issue, Remulla maintained that both his past DOJ actions and his current role as Ombudsman are anchored on due process and adherence to established legal protocols.