Ombudsman: possible arrest of ex-Sen. Bong Revilla before Christmas

The Office of the Ombudsman is preparing for the possible arrest of former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. as early as next week, raising the likelihood that he may spend Christmas in detention.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the development following the recommendation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to conduct a case build-up against Revilla in connection with the ongoing flood control mess.

Remulla said there is sufficient evidence linking the former lawmaker to the controversy, citing statements made by former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo and Bulacan District Engineer Henry Alcantara.

“Posible. Baka next week. ‘Yan (Revilla) ang low-hanging fruit tsaka matagal na ‘yan lumabas at matagal na iniimbestigahan ‘yan,” Remulla told ANC.

The Ombudsman is currently assessing possible charges of malversation and plunder against Revilla, although the exact stage of the preliminary investigation has not yet been disclosed.

Earlier, Bernardo claimed he delivered P125 million to Revilla’s home in December 2024 and that an additional P250 million was allegedly ordered for delivery before the start of the 2025 campaign period, allegations Revilla has denied.