Martin Romualdez seeks dismissal of flood control plunder case

The Office of the Ombudsman is investigating a multibillion-peso flood control kickback scheme involving several officials. The case centers on allegations of cash-filled suitcases being delivered to high-ranking personalities.

Legal counsel for former Speaker Martin Romualdez has requested the dismissal of the plunder complaint, citing the “equipoise rule.” Romualdez’s camp argues that conflicting testimonies—including 32 witness statements and several recantations from former bodyguards and employees—create enough doubt to uphold the presumption of innocence. Specifically, they point to recantations from individuals previously known as the “maleta boys” who had claimed involvement in the deliveries.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano stated that investigators may include four former security escorts of former Representative Elizaldy Co in the plunder charges following their alleged recantations. While the Ombudsman has noted the submitted counter-affidavits, Clavano emphasized that “no public official is above the law” and that all infrastructure spending must be accounted for. The Office is also monitoring several other cases involving lawmakers and contractors.