DPWH refers Romualdez, Co to Ombudsman for possible Plunder and Graft

By: NewsLine Philippines

Date:

November 22, 2025

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MANILA (November 22) – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has formally asked the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co for possible violations of anti-graft and corruption laws.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said he and the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) submitted documents and sworn testimonies from Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearings to support their recommendation. The possible offenses include plunder, violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and direct bribery.

According to Dizon, evidence links Romualdez and Co to contracts awarded to Sunwest Corp. and High Tone Construction—firms allegedly connected to Co—with project values totaling over ₱100 billion from 2016 to 2025.

In its referral, DPWH urged the Ombudsman to conduct a full investigation into the former lawmakers, company board members, and other involved parties. The agency noted that its findings are preliminary and may expand as the Ombudsman proceeds with its evaluation.

Dizon added that testimonies presented before the Senate point to ties between Romualdez and Co, who headed the House Committee on Appropriations during Romualdez’s tenure as Speaker. The Ombudsman will now determine whether to pursue formal charges.

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