A special panel of investigators from the Office of the Ombudsman has filed a 104-page supplemental complaint accusing former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and several others with plunder, graft, bribery and money laundering.
The complaint alleges that Romualdez and Co worked together to accumulate P56 billion in ill-gotten wealth from 2022 to 2025. The complaint is supported by sworn statements from eight former security aides of Co, who recounted alleged cash deliveries, along with a financial trail involving money changers, bank transfers and shell companies allegedly linked to individuals associated with Romualdez.
The supplemental complaint-affidavit links Romualdez and Co to plunder, direct bribery and violations of Sections 3(a) and 3(b) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Romualdez also faces an indirect bribery complaint, while he and Paras were likewise accused of money laundering.
The Ombudsman recently launched a formal preliminary investigation into Romualdez, Co and lawyer Jose Raulito Paras over an alleged flood control kickback scheme.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano earlier identified Romualdez as the “central figure” in the alleged scheme involving funds earmarked for flood protection projects.
The proceedings now enter the next stage, with the respondents set to receive subpoenas and given the opportunity to file counter-affidavits contesting the allegations. Ombudsman prosecutors will then decide whether probable cause exists to bring criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan.
The filing comes as flooding again affected parts of the country Friday and just days before President Bongbong Marcos‘ fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, where he is expected to announce additional measures against corruption, particularly involving flood control and infrastructure projects.
