Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has refuted allegations that the arrest of his cousin, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, was a politically motivated 'drama.' He labeled these accusations as mere political attacks against his administration.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a media briefing held on Sunday after attending the 18th BRICS Summit in India, President Marcos addressed critics who have suggested that Romualdez received preferential treatment or that his arrest was orchestrated. President Marcos dismissed these claims, arguing that they are not genuine criticisms of the judicial proceedings.

He further elaborated that the critics' remarks were attempts to discredit and insult him and his administration. "It's kind of may masabi, kailangan may masabi para insultuhin ka o to put you down, or sabihin mali 'yung ginagawa mo," Marcos stated, implying that critics were simply trying to find something negative to say about him.

Marcos emphasized that these statements should not be confused with legitimate commentary on the judicial process involving Romualdez. "So they have to say that. So that's what they're saying. They're not commenting about. That's not a comment on the procedures of court. It's just another attack. We get them a lot," he explained.

Romualdez is currently involved in legal proceedings concerning allegations tied to the government's investigation into a multibillion-peso flood control scandal. President Marcos reiterated that individuals responsible for any wrongdoing should be held accountable, regardless of personal or political affiliations, while also underscoring the importance of due process for those accused.