Romualdez to pursue bail in P7.44-billion plunder case

Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez's defense counsel informed the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Wednesday that they will file a bail application in connection with the P7.44-billion plunder case lodged against him.

Romualdez made his court appearance through video conference from the New Quezon City Jail, where he is currently detained. He wore the standard yellow shirt issued to persons deprived of liberty and appeared in a wheelchair during the arraignment proceeding.

The high court is simultaneously considering whether to suspend Romualdez pending trial on the serious charges against him. The plunder case represents one of the most significant financial crime allegations brought against a former senior official in recent years.

The bail application will be examined by the court as it weighs the evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense. The Sandiganbayan's decision on both the bail petition and suspension matter is expected in the coming weeks.