Ombudsman Blocks Romualdez's Singapore Medical Trip Amid Probe
The Office of the Ombudsman has firmly denied the request of former House Speaker and Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez to travel to Singapore for a scheduled medical check-up. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced this decision during a press conference held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
Travel Ban Enforced Due to Ongoing Investigation
Remulla explained that the trip was planned for today, April 21, but was blocked because Romualdez is subject to a lookout order with immigration authorities as part of an active investigation. "We did not respond favorably to the request that he may be allowed to leave," Remulla stated, emphasizing the legal grounds for the denial.
He further elaborated, "They were burning the lines yesterday until this morning, but I had my ground. I said when you joined the government, you already surrender your right to travel, especially to another jurisdiction, especially if you're under investigation. They might not come back anymore. We don't want that to happen." This stance underscores the Ombudsman's commitment to preventing potential flight risks in high-profile cases.
Corruption Allegations and Asset Freeze
The investigation centers on Romualdez's alleged involvement in anomalous flood control projects, with claims of multi-billion peso kickbacks. Dismissed officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways have implicated him as a recipient of these funds, though Romualdez has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.
Remulla revealed that the Ombudsman is awaiting the issuance of a freeze order on Romualdez's assets by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). "We already endorsed a complaint to them. We are waiting for the Romualdez case to start rolling, and the first case is about money laundering. We have long been waiting for the initiation of the filing of these high-level cases," he said, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations.
Upcoming Legal Actions
In addition to the current probe, Remulla earlier indicated that plunder charges against Romualdez are being prepared for filing in May. This development signals escalating legal pressures on the former House Speaker, as authorities move forward with what they describe as a long-awaited crackdown on corruption in government projects.
The case has drawn significant public attention, reflecting broader concerns about accountability and transparency in Philippine politics. As the investigation progresses, further details are expected to emerge regarding the specific allegations and Romualdez's defense against them.
