MANILA — Former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’s camp rejected claims linking him to plunder and other serious crimes, emphasizing that the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) clarified its referral to the Ombudsman was “issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability.”

In a statement, lawyer Ade Fajardo, counsel and spokesperson for Romualdez, said recent statements attributed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) should not be interpreted as proof of wrongdoing.

“We take note of the DPWH Secretary’s statement. However, it is important to clarify that a DPWH ‘recommendation’ is not a finding, much less a determination of guilt,” Fajardo said.

He categorically denied reports suggesting that the ICI had recommended filing plunder or other serious charges against the former Speaker.

“In fact, the ICI made it clear in their referral report that it was issued without finding or conclusion of guilt or liability on the part of former Speaker Romualdez,” Fajardo added.

He also stressed that Romualdez respects institutional processes and is confident that the Ombudsman will evaluate the matter independently and fairly.

“We respect due process and will await the Ombudsman to independently evaluate the submissions based on evidence, not press conference soundbites,” Fajardo said. (PNA)