Manila: Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday accused the camp of Tacloban Representative Martin Romualdez of orchestrating the decision of four of the 18 'maleta boys' to recant their testimonies in the controversial flood control projects. Remulla made the assertion during a press conference, pointing out that Romualdez stands to benefit from the recantation.

According to Philippines News Agency, the recantation has led Remulla to suggest that the four individuals may be considered as accused in the cases as 'accessories after the fact.' The individuals, previously identified as former bodyguards of dismissed congressman Zaldy Co, had initially claimed to have delivered suitcases filled with money to Romualdez. Their affidavits were scrutinized by the Office of the Ombudsman, which conducted visits to the locations where the money was reportedly delivered.

Meanwhile, Romualdez has denied the allegations made by the Ombudsman, stating that the accusation is baseless and prejudiced. In a statement to the media, Romualdez emphasized that the recantations support his longstanding position that the accusations against him are false. He expressed his commitment to addressing the allegations with facts and evidence, underscoring that he will not be intimidated by the charges.

In related developments, Remulla stated that former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan will remain a government witness in the flood control project cases. This decision comes despite the Sandiganbayan's rejection of the prosecution's request to exclude Bonoan as a co-respondent in the charges against Senator Jinggoy Estrada. Remulla noted that the Office of the Ombudsman would file a motion for reconsideration to exclude Bonoan as an accused.

The Sandiganbayan's earlier decision denied the prosecution's motion to drop Bonoan from graft charges, emphasizing that it would unfairly prejudice Estrada, who has already been arraigned. Despite this, Bonoan, whose arraignment was postponed due to health issues, may still serve as a witness in the case. Estrada and Bonoan are accused of ensuring the inclusion of projects in the 2025 national budget and awarding contracts to selected contractors, allegedly resulting in unwarranted benefits.