Protestors gathered outside the residence of House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Sunday, September 14, chanting “kawatan” and “kurakot” as they called for him to face the crowd.
The demonstration began around 5 p.m. at the gate of the Maria Luisa subdivision in Banilad, where Romualdez owns a house. He was not seen at the property during the protest.
The protest was sparked by allegations of corruption tied to Romualdez’s leadership in the House of Representatives and controversies over the use of public funds, particularly in flood-control projects.
On Monday, September 15, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Romualdez and his allies “will not be spared” in the independent probe on flood-control projects. The President confirmed the creation of an Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) that will review alleged anomalies in government spending, stressing that accountability would extend even to his close political allies.
Marcos explained that the ICI will be tasked to examine projects flagged for being substandard, delayed, or incomplete, particularly those funded under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
He added that the commission will operate independently from Congress and the executive branch to ensure credibility in its findings.
The President also pointed out that billions of pesos have been allocated to flood-control programs in recent years, yet many areas across the country continue to suffer from severe flooding. He said this highlights the need to investigate where the funds actually went and whether they were used properly.
According to Marcos, those found responsible — whether contractors, officials, or legislators — would face legal consequences. “Walang sasantuhin,” he emphasized, noting that the review will cover both past and ongoing projects.
