Politics · Philippines Bureau
Romualdez urged ex-lawmaker Co to seek party-list seat, court hears
A former aide testified before the Sandiganbayan that ex-Speaker Martin Romualdez allegedly pressured former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co to run as a party-list nominee. The testimony surfaced during Romualdez's bail hearing before the anti-graft court's Third Division.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Former Speaker Martin Romualdez allegedly sought to convince ex-Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co to run as a party-list candidate, according to testimony presented before the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Monday.
Larry Bellen, a long-time executive aide to Co, recounted the alleged pressure campaign while testifying during Romualdez's bail hearing at the anti-graft court. Bellen's account forms part of evidence being presented in connection with charges facing the former House speaker.
The testimony centers on Romualdez's alleged efforts to influence political decisions by Co, whose party-list representation reflected broader factional dynamics within the chamber during the period in question.
Romualdez's bail hearing continues as prosecutors and defense present evidence related to the charges he faces. The case marks another development in investigations involving high-ranking political figures and allegations of electoral interference.