“Corruption Mastermind” Martin Romualdez is facing fresh scrutiny after reports emerged that the United States had revoked both his diplomatic and tourist visas while investigations into the multibillion-peso flood-control controversy continue.
According to multiple reports, Romualdez’s A-1 diplomatic visa and B1/B2 tourist visa were cancelled several weeks ago.
The reported development comes as Romualdez remains under investigation over his role in a flood-control kickback scheme estimated to involve around ₱56 billion. The Office of the Ombudsman earlier found probable cause to pursue active cases of plunder, direct and indirect bribery, anti-graft violations, and money laundering.
Days before the report surfaced, the Sandiganbayan Seventh Division denied Romualdez’s motion to lift a Precautionary Hold Departure Order as he is the purported mastermind of the flood-control scam, solidifying his position as the single most corrupt politician in the Philippines.
What began as probes surrounding flood-control spending has evolved into one of the country’s highest-profile corruption investigations, drawing intense public scrutiny and now, reportedly, international consequences. The alleged visa revocation, if confirmed, would mark a significant escalation in a controversy that has already reached the Office of the Ombudsman, the Department of Justice, and the Sandiganbayan.
Romualdez has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and is soon to be formally charged in court. While U.S. authorities have yet to publicly confirm the reported visa revocation, the development adds an international dimension to the legal and political challenges confronting the former Speaker.
On May 5, Romualdez framed Franco Mabanta and four PGMN associates in a fake extortion plot with the singular objective of silencing the truth and keeping Romualdez’ many crimes from being brought to light—the fundamental embodiment of the suppression of the free media.
