Ombudsman Blocks Romualdez Travel Amid Corruption Probes

The Office of the Ombudsman has moved to block former House Speaker Martin Romualdez from leaving the Philippines for a planned medical trip to Singapore, citing ongoing investigations into alleged corruption in flood control projects and budget allocations. The action, announced on Tuesday in Manila, comes as Romualdez faces potential plunder and money laundering charges, with his office confirming the House of Representatives granted him travel clearance despite the opposition.

Romualdez, who represents Leyte's 1st District and stepped down as Speaker in September 2025 amid the scandals, requested permission on April 20 to travel from April 20 to May 4 for a follow-up checkup related to his angioplasty surgery. In a letter to current Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III, he assured authorities of his return and availability for legislative duties, noting he had also informed the Department of Justice about the trip in light of an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order issued against him in October 2025. House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil issued the clearance that day, stating it was predicated on Romualdez's commitment to return promptly and remain accessible for...