Court orders BJMP to assume custody of detained former Speaker Romualdez

The Sandiganbayan Third Division issued a commitment order on Thursday directing the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to assume custody of former Speaker and Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez. Associate Justice Karl Miranda, who chairs the Third Division, signed the order requiring the jail agency to take control of Romualdez from Cardinal Santos Medical Center in San Juan City, where he has remained confined.

The order represents a significant development in the handling of the high-profile case involving the veteran politician. Romualdez, a prominent figure in Philippine politics, has been held at the private medical facility pending resolution of his case before the appellate court.

The BJMP, which oversees the Bureau of Corrections and municipal jails nationwide, is tasked with ensuring proper custody and detention procedures. The transfer of Romualdez's custody to the BJMP follows standard judicial protocols for individuals under court order.

The move underscores the court's authority in managing custody arrangements for individuals involved in cases pending before it. The Sandiganbayan, which specializes in cases involving public officials and crimes of magnitude, continues to supervise the proceedings related to Romualdez's case.