The Philippine political landscape faces a critical moment as former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co face formal corruption charges before the Office of the Ombudsman. This development marks a significant escalation in what many are calling the country's latest major political scandal.
Formal Recommendation Filed with Evidence
The Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have formally submitted their recommendation to the Office of the Ombudsman, urging the filing of charges against the two prominent politicians. The submission was made on November 21, 2025, by Secretary Vince Dizon, ICI Chair Andres Reyes, and former DPWH Secretary Rogelio "Babes" Singson, indicating they possess substantial evidence to support their claims.
This move represents a bold step by government agencies to address long-standing allegations of corruption within infrastructure projects. The involvement of high-ranking officials in submitting the recommendation suggests confidence in the strength of their case.
Companies and Cash Deliveries Under Scrutiny
At the heart of the allegations are two corporations—Hi-Tone Construction & Development Corp. and Sunwest Corporation—both linked to Representative Zaldy Co. Investigators claim these companies received numerous flood control projects through questionable means, suggesting a systematic pattern of favoritism and profiteering from government contracts.
The testimony of retired Marine Orly Guteza before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has gained significant weight in the investigation. Guteza confessed to delivering millions of pesos in cash contained in suitcases to the residence of Martin Romualdez, providing what appears to be direct evidence of improper financial transactions.
Broader Political Connections Emerge
Further complicating the matter is a video statement from Zaldy Co that describes deeper connections between Romualdez and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. While this statement wasn't included in the formal recommendation because it wasn't given under oath, investigators acknowledge it shouldn't be dismissed entirely.
The public response has been mixed, with many citizens expressing hope that this represents genuine anti-corruption efforts rather than political theater designed to create the appearance of action. Filipinos who have suffered from flooding, damaged infrastructure, and substandard projects deserve transparent justice that operates without favoritism toward any political faction.
As the case moves forward, all eyes will be on the Ombudsman's office and investigating institutions to ensure they pursue the matter seriously, regardless of which powerful figures might be affected. The Filipino people await real accountability, not just the filing of cases that may never reach proper resolution.
