MANILA – House Speaker Martin Romualdez will not be exempt from accountability if evidence links him to irregularities in flood control projects, Malacañang said Wednesday, adding that resignation or a change in congressional leadership will not shield him from investigation.

“Mag-resign o hindi siya mag-resign, maaari pa rin siyang maimbestigahan (Whether he resigns or not, he can still be investigated),” Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a Palace briefing.

She noted that if Romualdez chooses to step down, it would be acceptable if done to preserve the integrity of Congress and allow an open probe.

“At kung masasangkot man ang kaniyang pangalan at may mapapakitang ebidensiya laban sa kaniya, mas magandang ito ay kaniyang depensahan sa pamamagitan ng mga records na maaari niyang ipakita (And if his name is dragged and there is evidence against him, it is best that he defends himself through records he can present),” Castro added.

Castro confirmed that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Romualdez, his cousin, in Malacañang on Tuesday evening but did not disclose details of their discussion. The meeting came amid speculation of a possible change in House leadership.

ICI begins work

The Palace official also said Marcos expects immediate results from the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), which began its work Tuesday after convening at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The ICI is chaired by retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Andres Reyes Jr., with former DPWH Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson and SGV & Co. Country Managing Partner Rossana Fajardo as members. The body has started organizing its structure and is set to inspect its new office this week.

Marcos created the commission with authority to investigate, subpoena, and recommend prosecution in corruption-tainted infrastructure projects.

Meanwhile, Castro reported that the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website has received more than 16,000 complaints since its launch. The complaints will be endorsed to the ICI for evaluation and possible action, she said. (PNA)