Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla has flagged 67 to 70 politicians for possible conflict of interest violations, including Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., who are currently under investigation.

During a press briefing on Monday, October 20, members of the media asked the Ombudsman about the alleged conflicts of interest involving the two senators.

However, Remulla clarified that they are not the only individuals being looked into in connection with possible conflict of interest violations. He emphasized that the ongoing investigation potentially involves 67 to 70 politicians or political families, and that no single person or group is being singled out at this stage.

“Pero ang low-hanging fruit diyan yung mga talagang direct relationship, talagang nakakagulat, nandiyan pala, naka-umang lang sa harap mo,” he added, referring to individuals whose direct relationships to government transactions or positions are clear and blatant.

Bong Go's alleged connection to contractors for DPWH contracts

Remulla stated that the possible links between Go and the Discaya cases are currently under investigation, with authorities now in the process of gathering sufficient evidence and facts.

He revealed that a representative from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) visited his office earlier today to formally coordinate and assist in gathering necessary documents for ongoing investigations.

He emphasized the importance of securing official paperwork, such as payment vouchers, as these serve as critical evidence. Remulla cited instances where government projects were already paid for despite being incomplete, saying such situations clearly put the government at a disadvantage.

Go is being linked to alleged irregularities in DPWH flood-control projects involving contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya. The Discayas’ company reportedly entered into a joint venture with CLTG Builders, a construction firm owned by Go’s father.

Go has already denied any wrongdoing, insisting he has no business ties with the Discaya couple and that his family's company operates independently.

Bong Revilla's alleged scheme in the flood control scandal

When asked if the Revilla family’s possible links are part of the ongoing review, he responded, “Kasama ‘yan e. Kasi nga ang conflict of interest cases, very interesting ‘yan.”

Remulla stressed that conflict of interest cases continue to be a critical issue, especially when public officials engage in government contracts within their own districts.

He pointed out that this has long been a matter of concern in Congress, questioning why some lawmakers would enter into contracts with the government, particularly in areas where they hold influence. Remulla underscored that such arrangements raise serious ethical and legal red flags.

“Conflict of interest ‘yan. Especially that in a legislature, you craft the budget and you have a vote in a budget, and you have hearings in a budget,” he stated.

“Kahit good faith ka diyan, foul pa rin e. Good faith does not mean that you will be acquitted of any charge, pagdating diyan sa conflict of interest,” he added, stressing that intent is not a defense when the law clearly prohibits certain actions.

Revilla is alleged to be involved in a corruption scheme related to DPWH flood control projects, in which a former DPWH engineer testified that Revilla received kickbacks amounting to 25% of the project costs, with the funds reportedly delivered to his residence.

Revilla has denied these allegations and expressed his willingness to cooperate fully with the investigation.

Moreover, Remulla said that these cases are among the issues he plans to raise during judicial proceedings, noting that these conflicts of interest are often “low-hanging fruit” that can result in restitution for the government.

He explained that addressing such cases effectively could serve as a formula to hold people accountable and prevent similar violations from happening again.

“At mamili na kung magnenegosyo o maglilingkod. Hindi pwedeng sabay,” said Remulla.

Thus, the Ombudsman said he intends to hold a dialogue with House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III to address conflict of interest cases involving public officials.

He emphasized the need for cooperation to expedite the resolution of such cases, noting that a significant amount of public funds could potentially be recovered if conflicts of interest are properly addressed.