Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez has denied any involvement in alleged corruption linked to the 2025 national budget, insisting there is no evidence tying him to plunder or related offenses.
In a video statement, Romualdez said he is ready to release his affidavit and supporting documents for public scrutiny, maintaining that he has nothing to hide.
“I did not hide. I did not run. I did not evade scrutiny,” he said, adding that he would confront the allegations “head-on.”
The former House Speaker stressed that he was not part of the bicameral conference committee or smaller groups where alleged budget insertions were made, saying he only received general updates on the deliberations.
He also pointed to other figures as being involved in key budget decisions, while emphasizing that the process involves both chambers of Congress and the Executive branch.
The Office of the Ombudsman is currently investigating Romualdez for alleged plunder and money laundering linked to infrastructure projects and has sought a preventive hold departure order against him.
Authorities earlier denied his request to travel abroad for a medical procedure, citing concerns he may not return while the investigation is ongoing.
Romualdez, however, rejected claims he is a “mastermind” in the controversy and warned he will not allow himself to be used as a scapegoat.
“I will not go quietly, and I will not go alone,” he said, calling on investigators to follow due process and base their actions on evidence rather than public pressure.
