Manila: There is no reason for the Ombudsman to file a case against former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez in connection with the flood control scam, as there is no credible witness against him, his legal counsel stated on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, lawyer Ade Fajardo emphasized that the complaint against Romualdez should be dismissed due to the lack of credible evidence. He highlighted that 32 previous witnesses, including star witness Orly Guteza, have retracted their accusations against the former House leader. These witnesses were previously associated with ex-Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, who is currently facing an arrest warrant from the Sandiganbayan for his alleged involvement in the flood control scam.

Fajardo explained that no credible witness has come forward to testify about the alleged delivery of suitcases related to the scam. The witnesses who have recanted their statements were from a group comprising drivers, security personnel, and administrative aides of former Congressman Zaldy Co, he noted.

He further pointed out the absence of any direct link between Romualdez and the flood control scam or alleged kickbacks. Fajardo mentioned that even Secretary Manuel Bonoan did not provide any testimony connecting Romualdez to the scam. Additionally, no district engineers, assistant district engineers, or ground personnel have implicated Romualdez in relation to any specific flood control project.

Furthermore, Fajardo stated that no contractor has implicated the Leyte lawmaker in the alleged scam. Despite reports that the Ombudsman announced having 28 new witnesses against Romualdez, Fajardo claimed that their identities or testimonies have not been disclosed.