Remulla to Romualdez: ‘Man up’ and face charges over hospital confinement bid

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has strongly criticized former House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez's bid to extend his hospital confinement, urging him to "man up" and "face the music." Remulla made the remarks on Friday, shortly after the Sandiganbayan Third Division ordered Romualdez's transfer from Cardinal Santos Medical Center to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). "It's very sad that the former Speaker is resorting to this," Remulla said in a press conference. "I know him very well; he should take it with more dignity." Remulla added, "I am not happy about it," but stressed that the Office of the Ombudsman must apply the law. "Face the music, face the charges like a real man should, man up to it," he urged. Inquirer sought comment from Romualdez's camp but had not received a response as of posting time. Their side will be included once available. Last Monday, the Ombudsman's office filed plunder cases against Romualdez, former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, and two others, involving alleged kickbacks worth P7.44 billion. On the same day, the Sandiganbayan Third Division issued an arrest warrant for Romualdez, which was served at Cardinal Santos, where the Leyte representative was confined. This development highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in Philippine politics, where actions of public officials are subject to scrutiny and legal application to maintain public trust.