MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman condemned the unauthorized online disclosure of the identities of its investigators, saying it is now coordinating with law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible and pursue charges.

In a statement, the Ombudsman said the leak was intended to intimidate public officials and compromise their safety.

“The Office of the Ombudsman strongly condemns the malicious online disclosure of our investigators’ identities. This unauthorized leak is a blatant attempt to intimidate public servants and directly jeopardizes their personal safety,” it said.

The agency said it is working with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group to track down those behind the release and circulation of the information.

It also warned that those responsible may face charges under the Data Privacy Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

The Ombudsman further addressed recent complaints involving high-ranking officials, describing them as part of a broader legal approach.

“Regarding the recent filings involving high-ranking officials, the public is advised that these actions are part of a deliberate tactical sequence,” it said.

It explained that one complaint reached the courts ahead of others due to its position in the investigative process.

“This specific complaint reached the courts first due to its position in our investigative pipeline, but it is merely a preliminary component of a broader, multi-stage legal strategy,” it added.

The office said the initial filings were meant to safeguard the State’s interests, including preventing possible flight risks or movement of assets while related cases are still being developed.

It also emphasized that it will not engage in public arguments over the merits of the cases, noting that respondents will have the opportunity to contest evidence during preliminary investigation.

“It is not the duty of this Office to ‘lawyer’ for the respondents,” the statement read.

“If the respondents wish to challenge the credibility of witnesses or the veracity of the affidavits, the proper venue to do so is during the Preliminary Investigation.”