APRIL 24, 2026 — Former Speaker Martin Romualdez is now openly challenging Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, accusing him of prejudging the flood control scandal and demanding that the case be handed to an “independent and impartial body.” 

Romualdez’s lawyers from Villaraza & Angangco fired off a four-page letter dated April 22, 2026, claiming that Remulla’s public remarks have already condemned their client before any formal case has even been filed. They pointed to statements as early as November 2025, when Remulla said his office was studying plunder charges, and to more recent press conferences where the Ombudsman declared he was “seriously preparing” a case against Romualdez and former Senate President Chiz Escudero.

The most explosive remark came from Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano, who labeled Romualdez a “master plunderer” on April 16. 

Romualdez’s camp insists such language makes any investigation a sham, warning that even subordinate officials would feel compelled to align with their chief’s public position.

This legal drama is unfolding alongside Romualdez’s blocked medical trip to Singapore. The House of Representatives had granted him clearance, but Remulla intervened, saying “baka hindi na bumalik” (he might not return), effectively painting Romualdez as a flight risk. The Sandiganbayan later issued a precautionary hold departure order, barring him from leaving the country. 

Romualdez argues he’s being turned into a scapegoat, saying, “How can I be the mastermind? I was the former speaker of the House of Representatives. But the House is only one part of government — the budget is not conceived, executed, and completed by one congressman alone.” 

This defense resonates with many who see systemic corruption as a web, not the work of a single hand. Yet the Ombudsman’s aggressive stance signals a rare moment where a top official is willing to call out alleged plunder at the highest levels. 

Is this the long-awaited reckoning, or just another political battle where truth gets lost in the noise?

(Image: Philippine News Agency)