Manila – The House of Representatives has categorically denied allegations that Speaker Martin Romualdez has a PHP1.8 billion travel fund. Secretary General Reginald Velasco refuted the claims as "completely unfounded" and "categorically false."
According to Philippines News Agency, Velasco's statement comes in response to accusations made by hosts of a program on Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI). He described the allegations as fake news aimed at misleading the public and damaging the reputation of both the Speaker and the House of Representatives.
The Secretary General called for caution and fact-checking among the public and media before spreading such baseless claims. He affirmed the House's commitment to transparency and accountability, clarifying that such a large amount allocated for the Speaker's travel expenses does not exist.
In a recent development, Quezon Rep. David Suarez addressed the chamber in a privilege speech, urging the legislative franchises committee to investigate the matter. The House subsequently approved a motion to probe the SMNI broadcast.
