ROMUALDEZ BREAKS SILENCE: I WILL NOT BE YOUR SCAPEGOAT Former House speaker Martin Romualdez rejected allegations that he masterminded a massive corruption scheme and said he will confront what he described as a “false, twisted, and unfair” narrative. After months of silence, Romualdez said he is ready to address... the issue publicly, maintaining that he cooperated with authorities, submitted his affidavit, and has “nothing to hide.” He also authorized the release of his sworn statement and supporting documents. “I know there is no evidence that proves I committed plunder, conspiracy to commit plunder, or any similar offense that the Ombudsman may be contemplating against me,” he said. He also disputed claims linking him to budget irregularities, stressing that the national budget is a collective process involving the Executive, the House, and the Senate, not the work of a single individual. He added that project implementation, including flood control, falls under the Executive branch, particularly agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways. Romualdez said he was not part of bicameral or small committee deliberations and pointed to Senate President Francis Escudero and Rep. Zaldy Co as among those involved in budget decision-making. He also said his district in Tacloban has “zero ghost and zero substandard flood control projects” and invited public scrutiny of projects linked to him. Romualdez described the allegations as part of a “political demolition job” and said he would not be used as a fall guy, adding: “I will not go quietly, and I will not go alone.” “And to those who think they can throw me under the bus to save themselves, this is what I say to you: I am ready to defend my name. My silence should not be mistaken for weakness, ignorance, or fear. I know enough to defend myself. And if I am forced to do so in public, I will.” He also called on the Office of the Ombudsman to pursue all leads based on evidence, urging due process and equal accountability. (Video/Office of Rep. Romualdez) | via Marianne Enriquez /News5show more

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