Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juan Victor “Jonvic” Remulla Jr. is facing intense scrutiny—not just over his questionable leadership, but also for his misleading statements during a Malacañang press conference on February 26 regarding the supposed "hot pursuit operation" of a kidnapped boy.

The reality? The child had already been safely reunited with his family as early as February 23, yet Remulla went on national television to peddle a bogus story, raising more questions than answers.

Social media is ablaze with criticisms, calling out Remulla for lying to the public and misleading even President Marcos. Where is the CCTV or body-worn camera footage proving the so-called operation? If the “rescue” tale was true, how did the perpetrators manage to escape a police dragnet? If the cellphone signal pinpointed the exact location of the kidnappers, why weren’t there enough operatives to apprehend them? And the million-dollar question: what was the role of Remulla's close friend, Fil-Chinese businessman Kim Wong, in the entire affair?

Even more disturbing, Remulla boldly claimed that no ransom was paid, but within the Chinese community, it is widely known that the family paid a huge sum—reportedly facilitated by a well-known Fil-Chinese personality. These glaring inconsistencies not only undermine his credibility as DILG chief but also raise serious concerns about whether he manipulated facts for political optics.

A DILG chief focused on politics, not governance?

Even before this controversy, murmurs within the administration and the DILG itself suggested that Remulla’s ultimate goal is to position himself for the 2028 vice-presidential race. His increasing closeness to President Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos seems to reinforce this speculation. However, the First Couple may be turning a blind eye to the reality that Remulla is widely unpopular within his own department and its attached agencies.

A leader more focused on golf?

One of the most persistent criticisms against Remulla is his apparent lack of work ethic. Instead of immersing himself in the complexities of running the DILG, insiders claim he spends more time indulging in golf. This hands-off approach has not gone unnoticed by personnel within the department, who see his leadership as weak and uninspiring.

Damaging the PNP’s morale

Beyond his questionable work habits, Remulla has also made reckless statements that have angered the Philippine National Police (PNP). His assertion that the PNP should drastically cut the number of generals—from 133 to just 25—because it is a “criminal syndicate” has demoralized officers nationwide. Such sweeping and unfounded generalizations not only tarnish the institution’s reputation but also risk undermining its operational effectiveness.

The PNP, with 235,000 personnel, already operates with far fewer generals compared to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which has a smaller force but enjoys a more generous allocation of high-ranking officers. If Remulla is genuinely concerned about efficiency, why single out the PNP? Is he acting on misleading or incomplete information, or is this part of a broader political agenda?

The Remulla dynasty’s growing grip on power?

Adding to the unease is the perception that the Remullas are consolidating control over key institutions. With his brother, Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla, serving as Secretary of Justice, their family now wields enormous influence over both law enforcement and the judicial system. This concern was heightened after the controversial dismissal of a drug case against the Justice Secretary’s son—raising suspicions that power is being used for personal rather than public service.

Time for a leadership shake-up

With calls for Cabinet reshuffles growing louder, President Marcos must reconsider whether Remulla is fit to lead the DILG. His leadership has been described as detached and ineffective, his statements have sown more confusion than clarity, and his actions have sparked frustration rather than reform.

The Philippines deserves a DILG Secretary who prioritizes truth and accountability over political ambition. Someone who strengthens, rather than demoralizes, the PNP. Someone who values hard work and transparency over leisure and deception.

If Remulla continues down this path, his leadership will not only be untenable—it will be a liability to the Marcos administration. The country cannot afford a DILG chief more focused on politics than on the critical task of public order and governance.

Merlina Ang
Pasig City