Romualdez urges Ombudsman to inhibit from investigating him to avoid 'prejudgment'

Justice in Question Romualdez Seeks Ombudsman Inhibition to Avoid Preju
Prejudgment

The ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged flood control scandal has t
taken a new turn with Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez filing a motion with the 
Office of the Ombudsman to inhibit from investigating him, citing concerns 
about due process and impartiality.

The Urgent Request

In a four-page letter dated April 22, 2026, Romualdez's counsel argued that
that the investigation is tainted by a pattern of prejudgment that violat
violates his constitutional right to due process. The motion highlights pub
public statements made by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla and his officials
officials, which allegedly reveal a clear bias against Romualdez.

A Pattern of Prejudgment

According to Romualdez's lawyers, the Ombudsman's public statements created
created an impression of prejudice, suggesting that any investigation would
would be a mere formality to justify a pre-set outcome. The motion points o
out that Remulla disclosed as early as November 2025 that the office had be
been studying the case for weeks, discussing possible plunder charges. By A
April 2026, these statements escalated into public declarations of a plunde
plunder case being seriously prepared, possibly involving conspiracy and 
multiple actors.

Concerns about Impartiality

Romualdez's motion raises concerns about the appearance of impartiality in 
the investigation. His counsel warns that even subordinate officials may fe
feel compelled to align with their chief's public position, potentially tai
tainting the investigation. By invoking Supreme Court doctrine on the appea
appearance of impartiality, Romualdez seeks to safeguard due process and pu
public confidence in the justice system.

A Call for Neutrality

In a statement, Romualdez emphasized that his request is not about question
questioning the integrity of the Ombudsman's office but rather about ensuri
ensuring that the investigation remains fair and unbiased. His camp believe
believes that any complaint should be handled by a neutral and independent-
independent-minded official to avoid further prejudgment.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the alleged flood control scandal highlights th
the importance of upholding due process and maintaining public confidence i
in the justice system. Romualdez's motion serves as a timely reminder of th
the need for impartiality and transparency in investigations. As we navigat
navigate this complex issue, it is essential to prioritize fairness, integr
integrity, and the appearance of impartiality to ensure that justice is ser
served.

Keywords Ombudsman, Romualdez, flood control scandal, due process, imp
impartiality, justice system

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.