Former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez reaffirmed his innocence and readiness to address the legal charges against him after the Sandiganbayan mandated his transfer from Cardinal Santos Medical Center to the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
In a statement released Monday, September 14, the former House leader accepted the anti-graft court’s directive.
“I respect the decision of the Sandiganbayan,” Romualdez stated.
Romualdez, a cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., expressed appreciation to the healthcare staff at Cardinal Santos Medical Center and the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) for their medical evaluation and care.
“I will continue to follow the medical advice of my doctors,” he said.
The lawmaker currently faces plunder charges related to alleged kickbacks from non-existent or irregular flood-control initiatives.
Despite the ordered relocation to a detention facility, Romualdez stressed that his legal stance remains firm.
“I have always said that I will face the charges against me and answer them before the proper court. That has not changed,” he declared.
He reiterated his complete denial of the corruption accusations and expressed readiness to fight the indictment.
“I maintain my innocence. Haharapin ko ang kaso. Sasagutin ko ang mga paratang,” Romualdez added.
Acknowledging the personal toll of his impending detention, the veteran politician asked for strength for his family as the legal process moves forward.
“This is a difficult moment for me and my family. But I will face the days ahead with dignity, with faith in God, and with confidence in the truth,” he said.