MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. does not see himself as being referred to or blamed in statements made by former House Speaker Martin Romualdez invoking “command responsibility” over alleged irregularities, Malacañang said.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President does not interpret Romualdez’s remarks as directed at him, noting that Marcos had already ordered probes when reports of anomalies emerged.

“Hindi ganoon ang tingin ng Pangulo (The President doesn’t see it like that),” Castro said, adding that as early as 2025, Marcos had directed investigations into reported anomalies.

She explained that “executive” responsibility does not fall solely on the President, pointing out that the administration created an independent body to conduct impartial investigations.

“Kapag sinabi nating executive, hindi lamang po ang Pangulo ang nasa executive (When you say executive, the President is not its sole member),” Castro said, adding that the formation of an independent investigating committee was meant to avoid any perception of a cover-up, particularly in relation to the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Castro said the President’s role as Chief Executive includes initiating investigations, even when they involve officials within his own administration.

Romualdez, a cousin and ally of Marcos, has denied having control over budget allocations during his time as Speaker and rejected claims that he should be made a scapegoat over alleged irregularities, including those tied to flood control projects.

Castro said Romualdez is free to present his own defense but emphasized that the administration remains focused on ensuring accountability.

She also declined to comment on the relationship between Marcos and Romualdez, saying she has not personally observed any communication between the two.

The Palace said investigations will continue independently, with authorities looking into the possible involvement of officials, including those connected to project implementation on the ground.