Romualdez to Challenge Precautionary Hold Departure Order Through Legal Means
The camp of Leyte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez declared on Thursday, April 23, 2026, that the lawmaker will vigorously pursue all available legal remedies in response to a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO) issued against him by the Sandiganbayan. This order was requested by the Office of the Ombudsman, prompting Romualdez's legal team to assert his commitment to addressing the allegations through proper judicial channels.
Statement from Romualdez's Legal Spokesperson
Ade Fajardo, the lawyer-spokesperson for Romualdez, confirmed in an official statement that they acknowledge the reports of the PHDO. "We will avail of all appropriate legal remedies to question the issuance of this order before the proper forum," Fajardo emphasized, highlighting their intent to challenge the order systematically. He further clarified that Romualdez is currently in the Philippines and has not departed the country, dismissing any insinuations to the contrary as false and irresponsible.
Details on Romualdez's Travel Plans and Compliance
Fajardo provided context regarding Romualdez's recent actions, explaining that the lawmaker had secured necessary travel authority and coordinated with the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Immigration for a brief, four-day medical check-up in Singapore. "This is fully consistent with his conduct from the very beginning – one of cooperation, transparency, and respect for legal processes," he stated, criticizing what he described as a prejudicial narrative suggesting an intent to flee. Romualdez remains steadfast in his willingness to confront the allegations directly, according to his spokesperson.
The development underscores ongoing legal and political scrutiny, with Romualdez's team positioning the response as a defense of procedural integrity and transparency in the face of judicial measures.
