President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a pointed rebuke of his cousin, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, during his penultimate State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, marking a rare public confrontation within the Philippine political elite. Speaking directly to the nation, Marcos stated, “Hindi ako pangulo ng aking pamilya,” emphasizing that his role as president is separate from familial ties. He acknowledged that the Ombudsman’s office is nearing the filing of multiple charges against Romualdez, who is accused of playing a central role in a multibillion-peso corruption scandal involving flood control projects. Romualdez responded in a statement, expressing readiness to prove his innocence. He admitted that the situation is painful for his family but affirmed his commitment to following due process. “Naninindigan akong wala akong ginawang anumang labag sa batas,” he said, asserting that he has done nothing illegal and is prepared to demonstrate his integrity through legal channels. The Ombudsman’s Office had earlier identified Romualdez as the “central figure” in a scheme that diverted public funds intended for flood control initiatives. These projects were designed to protect communities from recurring flooding, which has historically caused widespread damage to homes, livelihoods, and lives. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano explained that the investigation revealed how these funds were misused, enabling illicit financial gains. The probe also uncovered connections between Romualdez and other officials, including former appropriations chairperson Zaldy Co, who has since gone into hiding abroad. Romualdez, once one of the closest allies of President Marcos, frequently accompanied him on diplomatic missions. His resignation from the speakership came in September 2025 after he became embroiled in the so-called “budget mess.” Critics have accused him and Co of orchestrating the 2025 General Appropriations Act, which was widely regarded as one of the most controversial and corrupt spending bills in recent history. The legislation included provisions that critics argue were inserted to facilitate kickbacks related to flood control contracts. Zaldy Co, currently in hiding, has publicly accused both Romualdez and President Marcos of being behind the inclusion of such provisions in the national budget. These claims have fueled ongoing tensions between the administration and opposition figures, who have called for greater transparency and accountability in government spending. Both Marcos and Romualdez have consistently denied the allegations, insisting that they acted in accordance with the law. However, the Ombudsman’s investigation continues to gather evidence, with authorities stating that they are “very close” to formally charging Romualdez. The case involves not only personal misconduct but also broader concerns about the misuse of public resources and the potential complicity of high-ranking officials in systemic corruption. As the legal proceedings unfold, the relationship between the president and his cousin remains under scrutiny. While Marcos has taken a firm stance in distancing himself from Romualdez, the incident underscores the challenges of maintaining ethical governance amid political alliances. The outcome of the charges could have far-reaching implications for both the administration and the integrity of the country’s fiscal policies. For now, the focus remains on the legal process, with all parties awaiting the final determination of the Ombudsman’s Office.
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