LEYTE Rep. Martin Romualdez has requested a postponement of his scheduled appearance before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) hearing, originally set for October 22, the commission announced Saturday morning.
According to an advisory sent by the commission to reporters, Romualdez is scheduled to undergo a “medical procedure.” The ICI stated that it will issue an advisory once a new date for the hearing has been determined.
The panel, created by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to investigate corruption in flood control projects and other infrastructure projects, can issue subpoenas but does not have the power to cite individuals in contempt.
Romualdez, who stepped down from his leadership position in the House after being implicated in the controversy, submitted his sworn affidavit to the ICI on October 14. ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka said that the lawmaker was expected to return to testify before the commission. Romualdez has denied involvement in insertions for flood control projects, as well as allegations that he received kickbacks from contractors. He has also stated that he will cooperate with the ICI’s investigation.
