The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has launched an investigation into allegations that former House Speaker and incumbent Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez has been secretly leaving the Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory (QCJMD).
However, an initial probe indicates no evidence that the lawmaker has slipped out of the detention facility.
BJMP Chief Director Efren Nemeño assured the public that accountability will be enforced if the final investigation reveals any irregularities involving personnel.
“Initial CCTV verification conducted by the BJMP National Headquarters showed no recorded power or CCTV interruption at the (QCJMD) and no recorded movement of Rep. Martin Romualdez outside the facility during the period examined,” Nemeño said.
Nemeño emphasized that all persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) are bound by uniform custodial protocols, noting that any authorized movement outside requires a proper court order. He added that the bureau welcomes cooperation and relevant information from outside agencies and the public.
Defense Denies Allegations
The rumors surfaced following a social media post by veteran columnist Ramon “Mon” Tulfo, who alleged—citing an unnamed source—that Romualdez had been making unauthorized exits from the Payatas facility inside an ambulance.
Atty. Jose “Judd” Roy III, lead legal counsel for Romualdez, strongly dismissed the claims as false.
“This report is totally untrue,” said Roy.
Romualdez has been held at the QCJMD infirmary ward since arriving late in the evening on September 14 following standard booking procedures.
Meanwhile, QCJMD warden Supt. Maria Lourdes Pacion has yet to issue a statement regarding the allegations.