Romualdez Ready to Face Plunder Charges, Lawyer Says

MANILA, Philippines — Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, the former Speaker, is prepared to “face the allegations against him through the legal process,” his lawyer said yesterday. Lawyer Ade Fajardo emphasized that the lawmaker is not seeking any special treatment, stating, “We respect the courts and the legal process. Representative Romualdez will face the allegations against him in accordance with law.” “He asks only for the same due process and fair hearing guaranteed to every Filipino,” Fajardo added. “Truth, evidence and a fair process should prevail.” The lawyer pointed out that public interest surrounding the case should not replace the judicial process where criminal liability is determined on the basis of evidence presented in court, “under the rules and safeguards of our justice system.” Romualdez’s nemesis, Rep. Toby Tiangco, his cousin-in-law, expressed gladness over the court indictment. “We have been waiting for this for a very long time. The filing of plunder against former speaker Romualdez is an important first step toward accountability in the flood control scandal,” said the Navotas representative, adding, “The arrest is the first step. The wheels of justice are moving. The destination: full accountability.” House Senior Deputy Minority Leader Rep. Leila de Lima called the filing of the case against Romualdez “a significant development in this administration’s commitment to hold accountable those involved in the massive corruption in our history.” She stated, “This is due process at work for all those accused. They should answer to all the allegations hurled against them and face the issues squarely before our fellowmen.” However, de Lima lamented, “Encouraging as it is, this cannot be the be-all and end-all of the fight for justice and accountability over anomalous flood control projects. There have been many more names that have been floated in the investigation that was not livestreamed by ICI (Independent Commission for Infrastructure). We have no more update.” Rep. Harold Duterte of the Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandagat party-list also welcomed the filing of plunder charges against the former House leader. “After more than a year in the national spotlight, charges have finally been filed against former speaker Romualdez and former committee on appropriations chairman Zaldy Co. On its face, these charges are welcome,” he said. “Any step toward accountability for this flood control mess is always welcome, especially given the slow, opaque way investigations have proceeded. However, given the relationship between the ombudsman and the ex-speaker, it is our fervent hope that relationships will not prevail over duty.”