By Robina Asido

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. revealed that multiple graft cases will be filed by the Ombudsman against his cousin, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, in connection with the flood control mess, which he admitted causes him pain.

As he started his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos updated the public about the progress on the efforts of the administration in going after contractors, government officials and lawmakers involved in the flood control controversy.

"There have already been people who were charged and imprisoned, including high-ranking officials and even lawmakers. And we have now reached the point where, according to the Ombudsman, the filing of multiple cases against the former Speaker is drawing near," he said.

"Even if it is painful for me, we must do what is right. I am not the President of my family. I am not the President of my friends. I am the President of the Philippines, and my duty is to you—my fellow Filipinos," Marcos added.

In a statement, responding to the SONA of Marcos, Romualdez expressed confidence that he is prepared to prove his innocence.

"Painful as this is for our family, I respect the President's statement. I have never asked for favors or special treatment," he said.

"I agree that we should do what is right. The right thing is to follow due process and let the evidence speak for itself. I maintain that I have done nothing unlawful. And I am prepared to prove it," he added.

The Office of the Ombudsman previously revealed that a panel of investigators filed a supplemental complaint for preliminary investigation against Romualdez, former Ako Bicol Partylist congressman Zaldy Co, and others for plunder, direct and indirect bribery, graft, and money laundering in relation to the flood control scandal.PHS