Names of Zaldy Co and Martin Romualdez Posted Outside Memorial Chapel
The names of Zaldy Co and Martin Romualdez have become the center of online discussions after a viral video showed them being posted outside a memorial chapel in Pampanga. The footage, shared by an anonymous user on GMA Public Affairs’ Facebook page, shows a chapel employee attaching the names to a sign, sparking confusion and speculation among viewers.
Although the video did not directly confirm the identities, netizens quickly linked the names to Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co and former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez. The reason for displaying their names remains unclear, as no explanation was provided in the original post.
The video quickly gained traction and drew mixed reactions online. Some netizens left sarcastic comments, while others expressed anger and frustration. One person suggested that the names of those who approved government budgets should also be displayed for accountability. Another joked about getting tax refunds before “passing away,” while others mocked the situation by offering fake condolences to the families of Romualdez and Co. Some even linked the incident to recent flood-related deaths in Bulacan and other parts of the country, hinting at government neglect and corruption.
This incident comes at a sensitive time for both lawmakers, who are currently facing allegations of involvement in questionable flood control projects. Their names were mentioned by Curlee Discaya, a contractor who accused certain officials of receiving kickbacks related to these government-funded projects.
Amid the growing controversy, Martin Romualdez decided to step down as House Speaker to allow the ongoing investigation to proceed freely and without interference. In his statement, he explained that his resignation came after careful thought and consideration. He also assured the public that, even though he was leaving his position as Speaker, he would continue to serve as a congressman and remain committed to fulfilling his duties to the people.
Meanwhile, Zaldy Co has not yet returned to the Philippines and has remained silent about the accusations against him. As of now, the management of the memorial chapel has not clarified whether the names were indeed referring to the two politicians or if it was purely coincidental, leaving the public to speculate further.