MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman on Monday, September 7, filed a plunder case against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez over his alleged involvement in a multibillion-peso kickback scheme linked to government flood-control projects.
It follows an Ombudsman investigation into allegations that Romualdez, former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and others conspired to accumulate ill-gotten wealth through public works projects. In July, the Ombudsman described Romualdez as an alleged “central figure” in the scheme.
Investigators have also cited testimonies from former members of Co’s security detail who claimed they delivered suitcases containing cash to Romualdez, although some of them later recanted their statements.
Romualdez has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. His camp asked the Ombudsman to give the former speaker an opportunity to respond to any new accusations, including possible allegations involving former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
His legal counsel and spokesperson, Ade Fajardo, requested that the Ombudsman inform the defense of any such claims and provide sufficient time for Romualdez to answer them.
