Romualdez Not Applying as State Witness, DOJ Confirms
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has denied rumors claiming that former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez is being considered as a state witness. In a statement released on Friday, October 17, the DOJ said there is no truth or legal basis to the misinformation circulating online.
The DOJ explained that for anyone to be considered a state witness, a formal application must first be filed through the Witness Protection, Security, and Benefit Program (WPSBP). The agency clarified that every application undergoes a thorough evaluation to determine whether the person qualifies to become a state witness under the law.
As of now, the DOJ confirmed that Romualdez has not filed any application to be placed under the witness protection program. The department also assured the public that all ongoing investigations will be conducted swiftly, fairly, and without political bias. It emphasized that no individual will be exempt from accountability if the evidence warrants legal action.
The DOJ further warned the public against believing false information or political propaganda that could mislead or confuse the public. It reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the rule of law and ensure transparency in all proceedings.
Earlier, Malacañang stated that it would be up to the DOJ to determine whether Romualdez qualifies to become a state witness under the WPSBP. The Palace clarified that any recommendation would still have to go through the courts and would depend on the outcome of the investigation.
Meanwhile, Martin Romualdez is a businessman, lawyer, and politician who served as the 28th Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2022 to 2025. He currently represents Leyte’s 1st District and is a first cousin of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. His term as Speaker was marred by controversy, including alleged involvement in flood control project anomalies and the Marcos–Duterte political rift, which led to his resignation in 2025.
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