Netizens React to Weight Loss of Romualdez While He Denies Corruption Allegations
MARTIN ROMUALDEZ – Many netizens noticed the apparent weight loss of former House Speaker after he reappeared in public following months of limited visibility since stepping down from his post. His slimmer appearance quickly drew attention online, with people commenting on how much weight he seemed to have lost.
Romualdez resurfaced through a Christmas message in which he greeted Filipinos and encouraged them to hold on to love, unity, and hope despite the challenges facing the country. He emphasized faith, compassion, and the importance of drawing strength from shared values during difficult times, saying that hope and light can still guide people forward.
His message came amid ongoing political controversies. Through his camp, Romualdez has firmly denied accusations linking him to plunder or other serious crimes. His lawyer clarified that a referral made by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to the Office of the Ombudsman did not include any finding of guilt or liability. According to his legal team, recommendations or referrals should not be treated as proof of wrongdoing. They stressed that Romualdez respects due process and is confident that any review will be handled fairly and based on evidence rather than public statements.
Previously, former lawmaker Elizaldy Co made public allegations concerning large budget insertions, claiming he was instructed to follow orders involving billions of pesos in infrastructure funding. Co alleged that he was pressured to remain silent and later used as a scapegoat when corruption issues arose. He stated that the instructions came from higher authorities and that he initially complied out of fear and trust. Co also said he plans to release more information to support his claims.
Romualdez’s camp, however, has rejected these accusations and emphasized that no official finding has linked him to any illegal activity. Government officials named in the claims have also denied the allegations. Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, particularly regarding questioned public works projects and budget insertions, while some complaints have already been filed with the Office of the Ombudsman.