Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co face arrest after the Sandiganbayan Third Division found probable cause in the ₱7.4-billion plunder charges filed against them.
The anti-graft court issued arrest warrants and hold departure orders on Monday, September 7, shortly after the Office of the Ombudsman formally lodged the complaint. The case stems from an alleged kickback scheme linked to government infrastructure and flood-control developments.
Also named as co-accused in the charge sheet are Jocelyn Sereño, a member of Romualdez’s household staff, and money changer Felecito Guevarra.
In an official statement addressing the directives, the court clarified the legal scope of its action, emphasizing that the arrest orders do not establish criminal liability:
“The issuance of a warrant of arrest signifies only that, after personally evaluating the records, the Court found probable cause to believe that the accused committed the offense charged. It does not constitute a determination of guilt. All accused continue to enjoy the constitutional presumption of innocence until their guilt is proven beyond reasonable doubt after a full and impartial trial.”
The Sandiganbayan reiterated that its actions remain strictly bound by the Constitution, statutory laws, the Rules of Court, and the evidence submitted.
It also urged all participating legal counsels, litigants, and court personnel to observe proper decorum, adhere to judicial orders, and safeguard the integrity of the proceedings.
“The Court enjoins all parties to cooperate to ensure that the proceedings are conducted speedily, fairly, orderly, and with full respect for the rule of law,” the tribunal added.