Reports of corruption in flood control projects have placed House Speaker Martin Romualdez and his aide, Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” Gabonada Jr., under the public spotlight.
According to sworn statements from contractors, names of high-ranking officials were allegedly mentioned in connection with demands for commissions or kickbacks in infrastructure contracts, including those for flood control. Speaker Romualdez’s name appeared in one such affidavit, though he has denied any involvement, stressing that he never authorized nor benefited from anomalous dealings.
Meanwhile, Gabonada, known as the Speaker’s trusted aide and coordinator of social programs, has also been dragged into public discussions as part of the Speaker’s inner circle. Critics point out that Gabonada, while not directly handling flood control budgets, may be questioned in connection with how projects and community concerns were endorsed through the House.
Both Romualdez and Gabonada have not been formally charged, but investigations are ongoing. The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and calls for an Independent Commission on Infrastructure aims to uncover the truth behind allegations of ghost projects, substandard works, and misuse of billions in public funds.
Community members are divided. Some expressed disappointment, fearing that funds meant to protect families from floods may have been diverted. Others call for due process, reminding the public that allegations are not yet proven.
For now, residents in flood-prone areas continue to wait, hoping that the truth will come out and that much-needed flood protection projects will finally deliver results.
