THE Court of Appeals has approved an order freezing the assets of former House Speaker and incumbent Leyte Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, confirmed Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla during his radio program on Saturday.
Remulla explained that such legal measures are processed and issued by the appellate court, as it is the designated body to resolve requests for asset restraints filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC).
This development follows the council’s announcement the day prior that it had secured a freeze order against a “prominent incumbent legislator” linked to anomalies in government flood control projects, without naming the official at the time.
Aside from the lawmaker, the order also covers the properties and financial holdings of his alleged business associate and a corporate entity, all of whom authorities identified as parties involved in the questioned transactions.
The AMLC detailed that the scope of the order is extensive, covering a wide range of financial and tangible assets. Under Romualdez’s name, authorities have placed restrictions on 25 bank accounts and 10 insurance policies. Meanwhile, the alleged business associate is affected in 27 bank accounts, 10 insurance policies, and one investment account, while the involved corporation has two bank accounts, seven property records, and one real estate property included in the freeze.
In issuing the order, the Court of Appeals ruled that there is sufficient probable cause establishing a connection between these assets and criminal activities.
The court determined that the resources are linked to allegations of plunder under Republic Act 7659, direct and indirect bribery as defined in the Revised Penal Code, and violations of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. These findings form the legal basis for preventing the transfer, disposal, or concealment of the properties while investigations and legal proceedings are ongoing, ensuring that assets potentially obtained through illegal means remain within the reach of authorities.
Remulla emphasized that this initial legal action is only the first step in a series of cases being prepared against the lawmaker and those involved. He revealed that around five to six more complaints are ready for filing and will be submitted one after another within the coming two weeks.
While noting that the case is currently undergoing preliminary investigation and that due process will be strictly observed throughout the proceedings, the Ombudsman acknowledged that holding powerful and well-resourced officials accountable presents significant challenges. As of press time, requests for comment sent to the office of Representative Romualdez and the AMLC have not yet received any official response.
