Sandiganbayan bars Romualdez from leaving Philippines over graft case

The Sandiganbayan has issued a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO) against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez amid graft and plunder allegations related to flood control projects, according to Philippine Daily Inquirer and Rappler. The court approved the request from the Office of the Ombudsman to block Romualdez from leaving the country while investigations proceed. Charges include plunder, graft, indirect bribery, and money laundering tied to a P56-billion kickback scheme involving national budget insertions.

Romualdez’s cases concern alleged corruption in flood control projects worth billions of pesos, with the Ombudsman actively seeking to prevent his departure to ensure his availability for trial. The PHDO came despite Romualdez having secured travel clearance from current House Speaker Martin “Bojie” Dy for a medical surgery scheduled from April 20 to May 4, as reported by Philippine Daily Inquirer. His lawyer confirmed Romualdez remains in the Philippines and has not attempted to leave since the order was issued.

This legal measure significantly restricts Romualdez’s overseas travel plans amid intensified scrutiny over his involvement in the scandal. The Sandiganbayan is set to decide on any additional appeals or motions regarding the travel ban, signaling ongoing legal developments surrounding the case. The court's caution underscores the seriousness of the charges and the potential impact on public funds.

Observers will be watching closely as the investigation unfolds, particularly whether additional accusations will emerge or if Romualdez faces further court hearings. The outcome will have implications for accountability in government infrastructure projects and the handling of large-scale corruption allegations in the Philippines.