#speakermartinromualdezresigns

MANILA, Philippines —House Speaker Martin Romualdez is reportedly considering taking a leave of absence or even tendering his resignation, amid mounting public outrage over his alleged links to anomalous flood control projects — a scandal that has rocked Congress and stirred national furor.

Sources within the House of Representatives revealed that Romualdez has been in closed-door meetings with key allies and legal advisers as pressure intensifies following the explosive testimony of contractors who named him and close associate Rep. Zaldy Co in the alleged kickback scheme involving billions in infrastructure funds.

“There is growing consensus within his camp that he may need to step aside — at least temporarily — to protect the integrity of the House,” said a senior House official who requested anonymity.

Flood Control Scandal: The Allegations

The controversy stems from Senate hearings where contractors Curlee and Sarah Discaya accused lawmakers and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials of demanding 10% to 25% commissions from flood control contracts.

Among those named were Speaker Romualdez, Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, and several others. The Discayas alleged that certain projects were either overpriced, substandard, or entirely nonexistent — so-called “ghost projects” — yet funds continued to flow.

Romualdez has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations “malicious and unfounded.”In an official statement, his office said:

“Speaker Romualdez has never authorized anyone to use his name in any transactions involving infrastructure or public funds. Any such acts were done without his consent or knowledge.”

Public Pressure and Political Fallout

As images of flooded streets and suffering communities make headlines, public anger has swelled. Civil society groups, anti-corruption advocates, and ordinary citizens have demanded accountability at the highest levels.

The timing couldn’t be worse for Romualdez, who is a key political ally and cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In a statement last week, the President said no one would be spared in the government’s probe into anomalous public works projects. “There are no sacred cows here. Anyone involved in wrongdoing will face consequences — regardless of their position,” Marcos stated.

Zaldy Co in the U.S., Critics Demand Return

Rep. Zaldy Co, chair of the House Appropriations Committee and known political/business associate of Romualdez, is currently in the United States for undisclosed medical reasons. His absence has only fueled further speculation.

Opposition lawmakers are now calling for his immediate return to face questioning.

“If he has nothing to hide, he should come back and face the music,” said Rep. France Castro of ACT Teachers party-list.

What’s Next: Resignation or Temporary Leave?

While no formal announcement has been made, lawmakers close to Romualdez suggest that he may soon file for a leave of absence, possibly to allow for an impartial investigation and preserve the image of the House of Representatives.

Resignation is reportedly “on the table,” but would be a drastic move that could significantly shift the political landscape.

“A leave would buy time. A resignation? That’s a different matter. That would send shockwaves,” said a political analyst from the University of the Philippines.

Calls for Independent Investigation

Good governance groups are calling on the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) to expand its probe and subpoena all implicated parties.

Transparency International Philippines urged the Speaker to “set an example”:

“If Speaker Romualdez truly values transparency and good governance, he should step aside while these allegations are investigated. The public deserves nothing less.”

Bottom Line

With the scandal gaining traction by the day and pressure mounting from both the public and within Congress, Speaker Romualdez faces a critical decision that could define his political legacy. Whether he opts for a leave of absence, resignation, or chooses to fight the allegations head-on, the coming days are likely to reshape the national conversation on corruption, governance, and public accountability.