Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez skipped two Senate hearings where he could have answered allegations tied to the 2025 national budget, prompting Senate President Pro Tempore Ping Lacson to point out that the opportunity had already been given.
Lacson, who chairs the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, said Romualdez was formally invited at least twice to testify under oath and respond to claims linking him to the alleged “mangling beyond recognition” of the 2025 budget during bicameral deliberations. The invitations were sent through the office of Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III in line with inter-parliamentary courtesy. The hearings were held on Nov. 14, 2025 and Jan. 19, 2026. Romualdez did not attend either session.
“The Blue Ribbon Committee gave the former speaker at least two chances through official invitations to testify under oath and public scrutiny to what may be his strong argument against allegations of masterminding the ‘mangling beyond recognition’ of the 2025 national budget,” Lacson said.
The Senate inquiry is examining alleged irregularities in the 2025 budget, including flood control projects flagged for possible anomalies. Romualdez released a video statement on Tuesday denying involvement. He said he was not part of the bicameral conference committee or the “small committee” that introduced changes to the General Appropriations Bill after approval by both chambers. He identified then Senate President Chiz Escudero and former House appropriations chair Zaldy Co as “instrumental in making those budget decisions.”
Lacson said appearing before the committee would have allowed Romualdez to present his defense in a formal setting and address the allegations publicly. Senator JV Ejercito, speaking separately, said questionable practices tied to project allocation must be addressed. “I hope those who are involved in this will really hold themselves accountable,” he said.
