(Martin Romualdez Facebook)
TACLOBAN CITY — Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez is prepared to face allegations linked to the controversial flood-control projects and has no intention of leaving the country, a senior official of his congressional office said.
The official, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak publicly, dismissed reports that Romualdez was planning to leave the Philippines amid the controversy surrounding the former House Speaker.
“That is unfair to him. He has never ever thought of absconding from the country,” the official said.
He said Romualdez had previously had opportunities to travel abroad, including when his daughter graduated from college, but did not leave the country to evade any issue.
“He is willing to face the allegations against him. That is how far we know him. He will answer all these unfounded allegations,” the official said.
Romualdez’s lawyer, Atty. Elaine Atienza, earlier said the congressman would respond to any formal proceedings through the proper legal institutions rather than engage in speculation or public rumor.
“Representative Martin Romualdez welcomes scrutiny. And he is prepared to answer it,” Atienza said.
She said Romualdez had consistently adhered to the rule of law and was ready to address any issues through the country’s legal institutions.
“Flight has always belonged to shadows. Romualdez has always followed the rule of law. He is willing to stand in the light,” she said.
Atienza also stressed that allegations should be resolved through due process and not through public opinion.
“In the end, every allegation against him must find its measure not in public sentiment, but in the quiet discipline of due process,” she said.
The statements came amid public discussions surrounding allegations against Romualdez in connection with the flood-control project controversy. No formal proceedings against the lawmaker were cited in the statements.
Despite the controversy, Romualdez’s congressional office in Tacloban City continues to operate and attend to requests from constituents in Leyte’s First Congressional District, which includes Tacloban City and the municipalities of Alangalang, Babatngon, Palo, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Tanauan and Tolosa.
The aide said Romualdez had instructed his staff to continue serving constituents, particularly those seeking medical and scholarship assistance.
“His instruction to us is to keep our office going by attending to the needs and requests of the people of the first district of Leyte,” he said.
(JOEY A. GABIETA, LIZBETH A. ABELLA)
