Manila: Former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Friday questioned the Office of the Ombudsman's continued reliance on witnesses who, he said, had already been publicly discredited and are now facing cyberlibel and perjury charges. In a statement sent to media, Romualdez emphasized his request for equal treatment under the law as the preliminary investigation into the flood control controversy progresses.

According to Philippines News Agency, Romualdez expressed concern over the use of witnesses whom both the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have publicly discredited. These witnesses are currently facing charges of cyberlibel and perjury. Romualdez questioned if such a move could be considered a fair investigation, noting that the witnesses had been previously rejected and later charged, yet were still being utilized against him.

Romualdez highlighted that the witnesses in question are the 18 former bodyguards of fugitive former lawmaker Zaldy Co and their lawyer, Levito Baligod. The DOJ announced on Wednesday that criminal complaints for perjury and cyberlibel had been filed against them in four Regional Trial Courts in Metro Manila. The cases stem from several complaints involving the execution and dissemination of a joint sworn statement, press conferences, interviews, social media posts, and other online publications.

Despite his objections, Romualdez stated his determination to continue facing the proceedings. 'Hindi ako uurong sa laban na ito. Hindi ako matitinag. Gawin natin ang tama (I will not back out from this fight. I will not be moved. Let's do the right thing),' he affirmed.