Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday denied Vice President Sara Duterte’s claim that he was plotting to kill her, calling the accusation a “desperate attempt” to divert attention from scrutiny over her office’s alleged misuse of public funds.
“These accusations are not only untrue but are a desperate attempt to distract from the real issues at hand,” Romualdez said, referencing the ongoing House panel investigation into the Vice President’s use of public funds, including over ₱600 million in confidential funds.
Romualdez Defends His Position
“The truth is clear. My job as Speaker is to serve, not to engage in demolition jobs. This kind of politics has never been part of my principles,” Romualdez stated. He described Duterte’s claims as an attack not only on him but on the integrity of the House of Representatives.
“These accusations seek to erode public trust in this institution, sow division, and create chaos. We choose unity over division, dialogue over conflict, and cooperation over confrontation,” he added.
Duterte’s Controversial Remarks
Vice President Duterte previously alleged that Romualdez was plotting to kill her. She also claimed that, in the event of her death, she had hired someone to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Marcos, and Speaker Romualdez, who is the President’s cousin.
Call for Accountability
Romualdez urged Duterte to provide clear answers about the issues surrounding her office’s budget. “If you have nothing to hide, why refuse to answer questions?” he asked, criticizing what he called vague and evasive responses during the inquiry.
The Vice President’s office is currently under investigation for alleged misuse of public funds, with the Speaker asserting that these allegations have brought to light evidence of potential fraud under her leadership.