Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said the revised partial report of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee will recommend continued evidence gathering against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez over his alleged involvement in the flood control controversy.
Lacson, who chairs the committee, clarified that Romualdez will not be recommended for preliminary investigation in the partial report due to insufficient evidence.
“In the case of Speaker Romualdez, hindi siya for preliminary investigation kasi nga walang validation, walang corroboration unlike do’n sa iba,” Lacson said.
He explained that the recommendation is for further fact-finding and case build-up, including a request for the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to track account movements.
“Kay Speaker Romualdez, ang recommendation doon sa kanya i-pursue ‘yung mga ebidensya na nakalap patungo sa preliminary investigation. Pero wala pa do’n,” he added.
Lacson noted that if sufficient evidence emerges, Romualdez could be included in the final report’s recommendations for preliminary investigation.
“Kung magkakaroon ng pagdinig na merong validation o corroboration… sa final report ng Blue Ribbon, masasama na siya,” he said.
The allegations stem from claims by whistleblower Orly Guteza, who testified that he personally delivered suitcases of money to the residences of Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co.
Guteza’s testimony was presented during a flood control hearing on September 25, 2025, introduced by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Rodante Marcoleta.
Both Romualdez and Co have denied any involvement in the scandal.