Former Speaker Romualdez Ready to Face Any Complaint, Spokesperson Says

The camp of Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday reiterated that the former Speaker is prepared to answer any complaint filed against him and remains confident that the evidence will support his position, spokesperson Atty. Elaine Atienza said.

The statement was issued by Atienza following reports that a special panel of investigators from the Office of the Ombudsman had moved to preliminary investigation complaints for plunder, direct and indirect bribery, graft, and violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) against Romualdez and several others over the flood control controversy.

Atienza said Romualdez has consistently maintained his readiness to address any allegations through the proper legal process.

“Tulad po ng nasabi na namin noon pa man, handa si Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez na harapin ang anumang reklamo laban sa kanya,” Atienza said.

The complaint asks prosecutors to conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether there is probable cause to bring charges before the court.

She said Romualdez believes that a fair proceeding based on the evidence would establish his side of the case.

“Naniniwala kami na kung magkakaroon ng patas na laban at patas na paghuhusga batay sa ebidensya, mapapatunayan ni Rep. Romualdez ang kanyang panig,” Atienza said.

Atienza also appealed to the public to allow the legal process to take its course.

“Hinihiling lamang namin sa publiko na hayaang manaig ang proseso at ebidensya ang magpasya,” she said.*