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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Romualdez ready to face plunder, graft charges

Romualdez ready to face plunder, graft charges

Published Nov 21, 2025 10:11 am

At A Glance

  • Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez says he is ready to face potential charges of plunder, graft, and indirect bribery from the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the flood control projects controversy.
Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez (PPAB)
Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez (PPAB)


Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez says he is ready to face potential charges of plunder, graft, and indirect bribery from the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the flood control projects controversy.
This, after the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) recommended the filing of such charges against the former House Speaker, Romualdez as well as former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Zaldy Co.
Romualdez reiterated that he's ready to cooperate with the ICI. He noted that he earlier appeared before the commission when he was summoned.
But the camp of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) president admitted to being surprised by the development, especially after President Marcos announced it on his social media.
It was only last week when Marcos cited the dearth of evidence against Romualdez--his own cousin--when it comes to anomalous flood mitigation projects and budget insertions.
Romualdez, who was elected Speaker during both the 19th and 20th Congresses, expressed hope for a fair investigation.
It was during the previous 19th Congress that Co was elected by plenary as Committee on Appropriations chairman.
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