Washington: The United States has canceled the diplomatic and tourist visas of former House of Representatives Speaker and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez, confirmed Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez stated, "All I can say is it's confirmed. I don't have any details," in a text message. The ambassador and the lawmaker involved are cousins, adding a personal dimension to the unfolding situation.

The US Embassy in Manila, when queried about the reasons behind the cancellation, maintained its policy of confidentiality. 'Due to visa record confidentiality, the US Department of State does not comment on individual visa cases or specific actions taken,' the embassy informed the Philippine News Agency, leaving many questions unanswered about the specifics of the case.

The visa cancellation follows a recent decision by the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court, which denied the lawmaker's motion to lift the precautionary hold departure order against him. This order is part of an ongoing investigation into his alleged involvement in a significant flood control scandal, further complicating his legal and diplomatic standing.