US Revokes All Visas of Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez
The United States has revoked all visas previously issued to Leyte Representative and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, according to Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez.
The ambassador confirmed the cancellation but said that U.S. authorities did not provide any additional information regarding the reason for the decision. He also clarified that the revocation covers all visa types issued to the former House leader, including both diplomatic and tourist visas.
As of now, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines has not released an official statement on the matter. Under standard U.S. policy, authorities generally do not disclose details related to individual visa cases, making it unclear why the visas were canceled.
The development comes as Romualdez continues to face legal challenges in the Philippines. He is currently under investigation for his alleged involvement in a multibillion-peso flood control fund controversy. Earlier, the Sandiganbayan denied his request to lift a precautionary travel ban imposed while the investigation remains ongoing. The anti-graft court had previously approved a request from the Office of the Ombudsman to restrict his international travel as part of the probe.
Although no formal charges have been filed against Romualdez, investigators are looking into allegations that he may have played a key role in an alleged kickback scheme linked to flood control projects. Prosecutors have argued that travel restrictions are necessary due to his ability to travel internationally and his extensive foreign connections. Authorities have also described him as a central figure in the alleged operation.
Romualdez has strongly denied the accusations and maintains that there is no solid evidence directly linking him to any wrongdoing. He has argued that the allegations are based on assumptions rather than proven facts. He also sought temporary permission to travel abroad for a medical consultation following a previous heart procedure.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Ombudsman has stated that it is preparing additional cases related to alleged money laundering and a broader conspiracy to defraud government funds. The investigations remain ongoing, and authorities have yet to file formal criminal charges against the former House Speaker.
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