Politics · Philippines Bureau
Romualdez cites witness recantations in plunder bail petition
Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez has filed a bail petition before the Sandiganbayan, citing recantations by three former bodyguards as part of his defense strategy. The move challenges prosecution evidence in the high-profile plunder case.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez submitted a bail petition to the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Monday, anchoring his defense on recantations from three former bodyguards of ex-Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co, colloquially known as the "maleta boys" or suitcase boys.
Romualdez's legal team highlighted the witness recantations as a significant development in the case, arguing they undermine the prosecution's narrative. The Office of the Ombudsman had previously relied on affidavits from eight individuals in building its case against the former legislative leader.
The petition represents a key moment in the high-profile plunder proceedings, which have drawn considerable public attention given Romualdez's prominent position in Philippine politics. The submission sets the stage for further deliberations by the anti-graft court on the bail application.
The Sandiganbayan Third Division is expected to evaluate the merits of the recantations and other evidence presented by Romualdez's defense in determining whether to grant or deny the bail petition. The case remains one of several complex financial allegations involving senior Philippine officials currently under judicial review.