Ombudsman eyes plunder raps vs Romualdez, Escudero

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman is preparing to file plunder complaints against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Senate President Francis Escudero over alleged anomalies in flood control projects.

At a press briefing on Monday, April 6, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said the complaints could be filed "within the month of May."

"We have been seriously preparing a case of plunder case against former Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Senate President Chiz Escudero. There’s conspiracy involved," Remulla said.

He said the case is "flood control-related in so many ways" and is based on an examination of national budgets for 2024 and 2025.

Romualdez and Escudero have denied involvement in the alleged irregularities.

Probe may widen

Remulla said additional respondents may be included in the case, potentially covering officials from the Department of Budget and Management.

An Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order had been issued against them on Oct. 8, 2025, following a request by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure during earlier probes into the projects.

Remulla said he signed the immigration order before assuming office as Ombudsman. The order covered 33 individuals, including current and former lawmakers.

He added that the investigation may trace developments back to the term of former House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco.