The camp of Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez is seeking to prevent the Office of the Ombudsman from conducting any investigation against the former House Speaker, alleging that its officials have already shown prejudgment.
Allegations of Bias
In a letter sent by Romualdez's lawyers to the Office of the Ombudsman, they claimed that Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla and Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano, based on their recent statements, have already decided to convict the lawmaker even before any case has been filed against him.
“Given the public statements made by the Honorable Ombudsman and Assistant Ombudsman Clavano, there is a reasonable certainty that any fact-finding investigation will be a mere formality, regardless of the actual evidence or lack thereof. It is readily apparent that the Honorable Ombudsman has already made its determination to prosecute Representative Romualdez for plunder, and any investigation to be conducted would be a mere fishing expedition to support a foregone conclusion,” the legal counsel stated.
Statements Cited
The lawyers cited several interviews and statements made by Remulla and Clavano since they assumed leadership of the Ombudsman in November 2025. On April 16, Clavano referred to Romualdez as a “master plunderer.” Meanwhile, Remulla recently revealed that the Ombudsman is actively investigating Romualdez amid allegations of his involvement in anomalies related to flood control projects.
Remulla also stated that they are currently awaiting a freeze order on Romualdez's assets from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC). He further indicated that plunder charges could be filed against Romualdez as early as May. Additionally, Remulla noted that they prevented Romualdez's scheduled medical check-up abroad due to concerns that he might flee. As a result, the Sandiganbayan Seventh Division issued a precautionary hold departure order against Romualdez.
Call for Impartial Body
According to Romualdez's camp, the matter should be referred to an independent and impartial body to ensure that the proceedings are free from any bias or unfounded judgment.
