MANILA – Leyte First District Representative Martin Romualdez has strongly denied claims linking him to alleged kickbacks in flood control projects, calling testimony presented before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee “an outright and complete fabrication.”

“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 on Thursday.

The former House Speaker was responding to the testimony of Orly Guteza, a former Marine who was presented by Senator Rodante Marcoleta as a witness against Romualdez and other politicians, including Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co.

Marcoleta said that former Anakalusugan party-list Representative Mike Defensor introduced him to Guteza, who volunteered to disclose his knowledge about alleged irregularities in flood control projects. The senator noted that Guteza had prepared a statement prior to their meeting.

Guteza, who described himself as a former security consultant for Co, claimed that he had delivered suitcases of cash—alleged kickbacks from flood control projects—to Romualdez’s residence. He specifically identified the lawmaker’s home at 42 McKinley Street, Taguig City, and referred to the money as “basura” (garbage).

Romualdez dismissed the testimony as politically motivated.

“An outright and complete fabrication—nothing more than a desperate attempt to link me to supposed kickbacks where none exist. Pilit na pilit,” he said.

He also challenged the timeline presented by Guteza.

“The witness’ claim that deliveries were made to McKinley beginning December 2024. Imposible iyan. 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,” Romualdez added.

Reiterating his position, the lawmaker said:

“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.”

Romualdez stressed his willingness to undergo investigation.

“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.”

He further vowed to respond with evidence, not rhetoric.

“Kahit kailan, hindi ako nagnakaw ng pondo ng bayan. Hindi ko kailangan ang perang galing sa masama,” he declared.

“To the Filipino people, I give you this solemn assurance: I will never betray your trust,” Romualdez concluded.

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