Politics · Philippines Bureau
AMLC pursues civil forfeiture case targeting Romualdez bank accounts
The Anti-Money Laundering Council has filed civil forfeiture proceedings against the bank accounts of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, according to testimony presented before the Sandiganbayan on Thursday. An AMLC financial investigator confirmed the action during cross-examination in the graft case.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA—The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has initiated civil forfeiture proceedings against bank accounts held by former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a witness disclosed during proceedings before the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday.
The revelation emerged during cross-examination when defense attorney Rashel Ann Pomoy questioned AMLC financial investigator Jan Mark Busa, who was testifying for the prosecution. Busa's confirmation of the separate civil case adds another legal dimension to the ongoing graft investigation involving the former legislative leader.
Civil forfeiture cases allow authorities to seize assets suspected of being proceeds from unlawful activities, operating independently from criminal proceedings. The AMLC's action signals expanded scrutiny of Romualdez's financial transactions as part of broader anti-corruption efforts.
The Sandiganbayan has been hearing evidence in the case involving Romualdez, with prosecution witnesses providing testimony regarding alleged financial irregularities. The former Speaker has maintained his innocence regarding the allegations brought against him.
The civil forfeiture filing represents an escalation in the investigation, potentially affecting assets held in various financial institutions. The case continues as authorities pursue multiple legal avenues in examining the circumstances surrounding Romualdez's financial activities.