House Speaker Martin Romualdez Speaks on Flood Control Corruption Probe
MARTIN ROMUALDEZ – The House Speaker expressed his support on President Bongbong Marcos’ statement that no one is exempted from accountability.
Amid the issue on flood control corruption which dismayed countless Filipinos across the nation, Pres. Bongbong Marcos ordered the creation of the Independent Commission on Infrastructure or ICI, an independent body that will probe the infra projects of the government.
The independent body for infrastructure probe has the power to move for the seizure of assets linked to irregularities and the issuance of subpoena. It may also investigate the violators of the laws against corruption.
Amid the issue, several government officials including presidential cousin and House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed support towards the independent scrutiny to hold corrupt public officials accountable. However, Romualdez was one of the government officials accused by controversial contractors Pacifico and Cezarah Discaya of allegedly receiving kickback from the flood control deals.
The Discasyas brought with them a joint affidavit that dragged the name of several officials of the government and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) into the issue. Then, Romualdez was quick to deny the claim of the Discayas saying he does not need and will not allow himself to be corrupted by money that does not belong to him.
Recently, at the press conference over the Independent Commission on Infrastructure, one of the members of the media asked Pres. Bongbong Marcos about his cousin, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, and his allies who are dragged into the flood control mess. The President claimed that they will not be spared.
Following the remarks of Marcos Jr. that there is no exemption from accountability, House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed his support on the stand of his cousin. Based on a report on GMA News, the House Chief claimed that the chamber upholds transparency and restoration of public trust.
“I fully support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s statement that no one is exempt from accountability. The House of Representatives has already embraced this principle in our work to uphold transparency and restore public trust,” the House Speaker said.
Romualdez also shares the sentiment of Marcos Jr. that inquiries should not be a venue for name-dropping and reckless accusations. Based on the report, the House Speaker stressed that the House of Representatives will not be a refuse for wrong doing.
“The House will not be a refuge for wrongdoing. Not even its own Members will be shielded if wrongdoing is proven. We will ensure that the process is fair, fact-based, and guided by the rule of law. Walang itinatago, walang poprotektahan, at higit sa lahat— hindi lilihis sa interes ng taumbayan,” he added.
The camp of House Speaker Martin Romualdez insisted the claim of Mr. Discaya during a House flood probe as it stressed that the accusation against the Speaker remains a “hearsay”.