Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday said it respects the Office of the Ombudsman's filing of a plunder case against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s cousin, over alleged anomalies in flood control projects. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the filing aligns with the President's consistent stance that accountability should be pursued regardless of familial or political connections.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized the President's position that accountability should be upheld for anyone responsible, whether they are family members, friends, political allies, or opponents. "Ang sa Pangulo naman po ay kung sino po ang dapat na managot ay dapat na panagutin," Castro reiterated in a Palace briefing, underlining the importance of bringing to light whatever the evidence indicates.

Castro further explained that those facing charges would have an opportunity to present evidence in their defense and expressed respect for the Ombudsman's actions, given its mandate. The Ombudsman filed a plunder case before the Sandiganbayan against Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co over alleged irregularities involving flood control projects, accusing them of unlawfully amassing wealth amounting to around PHP56 billion from 2022 to 2025.

President Marcos, in his fifth State of the Nation Address, had previously vowed to pursue accountability in the scandal, including against Romualdez. He described the move as "painful but necessary," emphasizing his duty to the Filipino people over familial ties.

Meanwhile, Romualdez's lawyer, Ade Fajardo, stated that the former Speaker is prepared to face the allegations through the legal process, seeking only due process and a fair hearing. Fajardo stressed that Romualdez is not seeking any special treatment and emphasized the importance of truth, evidence, and fair process prevailing in the case.