The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) gave the Ombudsman documents about former House Speaker Martin Romualdez’s involvement in questionable flood control projects. However, the ICI did not say he may have broken any laws.
The two-page referral only included Romualdez’s affidavit, transcripts of his testimony, and audio-video files. It clearly said the document was not a finding of guilt.
Unlike past referrals where the ICI pointed out possible charges, this one did not list any laws or actions that Romualdez may have violated. The ICI said the Ombudsman is the proper office to decide if there is any criminal or administrative liability.
Romualdez’s camp welcomed the referral, saying it proved the ICI made no accusations and trusted the Ombudsman to review all evidence fairly.
Last week, the ICI and the Department of Public Works and Highways recommended charges against Romualdez and former lawmaker Zaldy Co over about ₱100 billion in flood control contracts linked to Co’s companies.
President Marcos earlier said that even his cousin Romualdez would not be exempt from investigation.
