Ex-Speaker Martin Romualdez Ordered to Jail Over ₱7.4B Scandal

Sep 10, 2026

70 min

Sep 10, 2026 05:30

Fallen speaker: High-flying Martin Romualdez ordered to Payatas Jail over ₱7.4B plunder scandal

## Court Orders Jail Transfer

Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez has been ordered by the Sandiganbayan to be transferred to a regular detention facility in Quezon City. This decision comes as he faces serious charges of plunder, graft, bribery, and money laundering related to a ₱7.44 billion scandal involving flood control projects.

## Hospital Arrest Controversy

Romualdez, a cousin of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., had been under hospital arrest at Cardinal Santos Medical Center due to health issues. However, the court has now mandated his transfer to the New Quezon City Jail-Male Dormitory in Payatas once he is deemed fit for transport.

## Allegations and Legal Proceedings

The charges against Romualdez stem from alleged kickbacks received from infrastructure projects between 2022 and 2025. The Office of the Ombudsman has accused him of masterminding the scheme, which reportedly involved at least 15 instances of receiving illicit payments.

## Political and Legal Fallout

Romualdez resigned as Speaker in September 2025 following public accusations from contractors. His legal team maintains his innocence, arguing he did not have direct control over budget allocations. His formal arraignment is set for September 14.

## Co-Accused and Flight Risk

Romualdez's co-accused, Zaldy Co, has fled to Europe, evading arrest. Prosecutors argue Romualdez poses a flight risk due to his substantial wealth and access to private transportation. The government assures no special treatment will be given during his detention.

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