Romualdez camp trusts Ombudsman's independent probe into flood control mess

The camp of Leyte Representative and former Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed confidence Monday that the Office of the Ombudsman will conduct an independent, thorough, and objective review into the evidence brought by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure.

"We trust that the Ombudsman will conduct an independent, thorough, and objective review of the evidence submitted," lawyer Ade Fajardo, legal counsel and spokesperson of Romualdez, said in a press statement.

This was after the ICI and Department of Public Works and Highways recommended to the Ombudsman the filing of plunder, graft, and bribery charges against Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co.

"From the outset, we have consistently maintained that a fair and complete assessment of the record will reflect the truth," Fajardo added. 

He said they acknowledge the referral submitted by the ICI and DPWH and welcome the Commission’s completion of its fact-gathering mandate.

"We respect the ICI’s commitment to transmit all gathered evidence to the Office of the Ombudsman for further evaluation," he further said.

The referral incorporates all evidence presented by Romualdez, including his sworn affidavit, complete transcripts, and the full audio-video recording of his voluntary appearance before the Commission last October 14, Fajardo said.

He noted that the ICI stated that the referral “is issued without any finding or conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of former Speaker Romualdez.” 

"This clear statement reinforces our confidence in the Commission’s impartiality and reinforces the constitutional role of the Ombudsman as the sole authority empowered to make determination on accountability," said Fajardo.

On Thursday last week, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said that the anti-graft body will file charges against Romualdez in relation with the flood control mess in the next six to nine months.

Romualdez has denied involvement in securing commissions from flood control projects as alleged by contractor husband and wife Curlee and Sarah Discaya during the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing.—AOL, GMA Integrated News