KULONG O LAYA: Tapos Na Ba Ang Hari Ng Kongreso? #attybuenoexplains.

Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez faces a \text{P}7.44\text{-billion} plunder charge filed by the Office of the Ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan. The case centers on an alleged kickback scheme involving government flood control and infrastructure projects from 2022 to 2025. ​Key Allegations Against Romualdez ​15 Cash Deliveries: Prosecutors allege that Romualdez and co-accused former Rep. Zaldy Co repeatedly received kickbacks on at least 15 separate occasions, with cash allegedly delivered in suitcases by bodyguards. ​Corporate Laundering: State prosecutors and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) assert that kickbacks were funneled into dummy and shell corporations controlled by associates to acquire real estate and high-value assets. ​Current Status and Bail Conflict ​Detention and Plea: Romualdez was arrested and transferred to the New Quezon City Jail Male Dormitory. On September 16, 2026, he pleaded "not guilty" to the plunder charges. ​The Bail Argument: Because plunder is a non-bailable offense punishable by reclusion perpetua, Romualdez’s legal team is petitioning for bail. The Sandiganbayan must hold hearings to determine if the prosecution's evidence—consisting of the flow-chart matrix, financial audits, and witness affidavits—meets the "proof evident or presumption great" threshold required to deny him temporary liberty.