Romualdez Placed Under Hold Departure Order by the Sandiganbayan
The Sandiganbayan has issued a precautionary hold departure order against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, preventing him from leaving the Philippines while he faces ongoing investigations by the Office of the Ombudsman.
The cases involve serious allegations such as plunder, graft, indirect bribery, and money laundering, which are reportedly connected to questionable budget insertions for flood control projects. The court approved the Ombudsman’s request after finding sufficient reason to believe that Romualdez might leave the country to avoid possible arrest and legal proceedings. Authorities have also directed immigration officials to place his name on the watchlist to ensure he cannot travel abroad during the investigation.
Romualdez, however, strongly denies all accusations and maintains that there is no evidence linking him to any wrongdoing. He insists that he had no direct involvement in the alleged corruption tied to the 2025 national budget. According to him, the national budget is the result of a collective and constitutional process involving multiple branches of government, not the decision of a single individual.
He also clarified that he was not part of the bicameral conference committee or smaller groups where the alleged budget insertions were discussed and approved. While he was informed about the general outcomes of the budget deliberations, he said he did not have access to specific details, including any changes or additions.
He further argued that if large-scale corruption did occur, responsibility would more logically fall on the executive branch, which handles the actual implementation and supervision of government projects. Romualdez emphasized that he is ready to face the allegations and defend himself through proper legal channels. He also expressed concern that he may be unfairly targeted or used as a scapegoat, stressing that he will not remain silent and will continue to present evidence to clear his name.