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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Remulla directs House SecGen to turn over solon's SALNs amid probe into infra projects 'anomalies'

Remulla directs House SecGen to turn over solon's SALNs amid probe into infra projects 'anomalies'

Published Apr 7, 2026 04:27 pm
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla (Facebook)
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla (Facebook)
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered House of Representatives Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil to submit in three days all the statements of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALNs) of House Deputy Secretary General Sofonias Ponce Gabonada Jr.
in the subpoena he issued, Remulla told Garafil that Gabonada’s SALNs are needed in the Ombudsman’s investigation into alleged irregularities in certain infrastructure projects of the government.
“A critical component of this investigation involves the SALNs of a member of the House of Representatives. We seek these documents to assess whether there has been any undeclared accumulation of wealth or financial anomalies that may indicate misconduct," Remulla said. 
Earlier, Remulla warned Garafil of possible suspension if she refused the release of the SALNs requested by the Ombudsman.
During an interview, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said that Gabonada became a "person of interest" in the investigation since "he was there during the time of former Speaker [Martin] Romualdez."
"Malalim po ang alam ni Gabonada (His knowledge runs deep)," said Clavano.
He added: "Gabonada knows a lot. We want the information to come from him. Any cooperation on his end would be appreciated."
Garafil was asked to submit clear and certified true copies of Gabonada’s SALNs covering the period from the commencement of his service in the House of Representatives up to the present.
Remulla said that there should be attestation or certification by the Records Custodian under the seal of his office that he has the custody of the said documents.
"You are enjoined to submit a certificate under oath if the said documents are not available explaining clearly the reasons therefore. Failure to comply within the period stated in this subpoena shall merit the filing of criminal charges pursuant to Article 233 of the Revised Penal Code and Presidential Decree No. 1829, as well as administrative charges pursuant to Sections 33 and 36 of Republic Act No. 6770, against you," the subpoena warned.
The subpoena was signed by Remulla on March 25, 2026 but bore the "Received" stamp from the Office of the Secretary General on April 7, 2026.
Last Monday, Remulla warned that Garafil might face possible suspension if she continues to refuse the SALNs of House employees who are being investigated due to their alleged involvement in the irregular flood-control projects.
"I'm warning the secretary general. I will cite the Secretary General in contempt. We will not allow them to ignore the orders of the Office of the Ombudsman," he declared.
Garafil's office is in charge of dispatching SALNs. However, she has repeatedly denied the request of Ombudsman prosecutors to access the said documents and reasoned that they need to first secure the approval of the House through a plenary vote.

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Ombudsman House Sec-Gen Garafil SALN
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