Leyte First District Rep. Martin Romualdez on Thursday denounced as “an outright and complete fabrication” the testimony of what he described as a coached witness before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that linked him to alleged kickbacks in flood control projects.
“I was deeply surprised to hear the allegation raised against me today before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee—that several pieces of luggage supposedly containing money were ever delivered to a residence associated with me,” Romualdez said.
The former House Speaker was referring to the testimony of a former Marines named Orly Guteza, who was presented by Senator Rodante Marcoleta to speak against him and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, among other politicians who were mentioned in the hearing.
According to Marcoleta, former Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Mike Defensor called him on Wednesday and introduced him to Guteza, who volunteered to disclose his knowledge about the subject of their ongoing investigation. The senator said he agreed to meet with Guteza, considering he already had a prepared statement.
Guteza said that he was hired as part of Co’s security aide in December 2024, who allegedly had personal knowledge and took part in the delivery of “suitcases” filled with money, which he referred to as “basura” (garbage), in the residences of lawmakers accused of corruption.
Romualdez described Guteza’s statements as “an outright and complete fabrication—nothing more than a desperate attempt to link me to supposed kickbacks where none exist. Pilit na pilit (It was too forced),” he added.
The legislator also pointed out what he called the “most telling flaw” in the account.
“The witness’ claim that deliveries were made to McKinley beginning December 2024. Imposible iyan (That’s impossible). That property has been under renovation since January 2024 and was unoccupied except for construction workers. Falsus in uno, falsus in omnibus—false in one thing, false in everything.”
“This is clearly political and the product of coaching. I will not allow these perjurious statements to pass unchallenged. Hindi ko ito palalampasin (I will not let this pass),” he emphasized.
Romualdez categorically reiterated his position. “I repeat: I have never received or benefited from kickbacks in any infrastructure project. I have never authorized, instructed, or allowed anyone to engage in any conduct that would betray the people or taint my name.”
He also underscored his readiness to face scrutiny. “I welcome a fair, transparent, and impartial investigation to expose these falsehoods. I voluntarily resigned as Speaker of the House of Representatives precisely to demonstrate my full support for the inquiry into flood control issues.”
Romualdez said he had “remained silent out of respect for the process,” but now that his name has been dragged into the controversy, he vowed: “I will fight back— not with rhetoric, but with evidence.”
“Kahit kailan, hindi ako nagnakaw ng pondo ng bayan. Hindi ko kailangan ang perang galing sa masama (Never have I stolen public funds. I do not need money that comes from evil source),” Romualdez declared.
“To the Filipino people, I give you this solemn assurance: I will never betray your trust,” the lawmaker added.
