Ombudsman Boying Remulla told former House Speaker Martin Romualdez to man up and face his criminal case with dignity, blasting his camp’s push for hospital detention as a plunderer’s ploy to avoid jail.
Remulla made the statement as Romualdez remains in hospital confinement after his arrest in the ₱7.44‑billion non‑bailable plunder case tied to flood‑control corruption. The Sandiganbayan ordered his commitment to Bureau of Jail Management and Penology custody and later directed PGH doctors to examine his condition to determine if he is fit for jail.
Romualdez’s medical team cited cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological risks. Psychiatrist Dr. Lourdes Ignacio said he suffers depressive disorder and severe anxiety but admitted government psychiatrists could manage his medication. Neurologist Dr. Rogelio Libarres warned stress and poor sleep could trigger another stroke. Dr. Rosalio Torres claimed Romualdez has unstable angina and coronary disease requiring monitoring.
Cardiologist Dr. Rody Sy testified Romualdez was initially “cardiovascularly stable,” with normal readings, but later had blood pressure spikes up to 170/110. He recommended four to six weeks of stabilization before transfer.
The Sandiganbayan rejected further delay, ordering Romualdez to undergo independent government medical assessment at PGH—removing control from his private medical team and keeping any transfer subject to court approval.
Romualdez has remained under police custody at Cardinal Santos since his September 7 arrest in the ₱7.44‑billion plunder case tied to the ₱56‑billion flood‑control scandal. His PGH transfer will mark his first move since authorities served the warrant.
If independent doctors confirm no emergency procedure is needed, then Romualdez lied again—and the solution is simple: send the master plunderer to jail.
