Manila: Leaders of the Lakas – Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) have expressed their collective support for party president, former Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez, as he faces allegations regarding budget insertions and infrastructure projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Lakas-CMD leaders issued a statement emphasizing that no evidence has been presented in any sworn or validated proceeding that implicates Rep. Romualdez in any misconduct. They asserted that the factual record is clear and uncontested and that justice should be based on evidence rather than pressure, speculation, or political noise.

The party leaders further clarified that all documents, audits, and official records indicate that there is no evidence against the former Speaker. They stressed that Romualdez, in his role as a former Speaker, consistently respected institutional boundaries during the budget cycle. They noted that he did not participate in the preparation, negotiation, or endorsement of individual projects, nor did he engage in dealings related to contractors or allocations. The leaders warned that narratives created for spectacle only serve to confuse the public and undermine institutional work.

The officials also stated that attempts to involve Romualdez in the controversy rely on unverified claims aired in venues where they cannot be tested. They emphasized that justice cannot be based on speculation or noise.

The statement was signed by several party officials, including Rep. David ‘Jay-Jay’ Suarez, Rep. Jose ‘Joboy’ Aquino II, and others, highlighting the party’s strong national presence under Romualdez’s leadership with 109 legislators, 15 governors, and numerous local leaders from Luzon to Mindanao as members.