Former Speaker of the House Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez | Photo [cropped] via Wikimedia Commons
NEW YORK — The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. has confirmed to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that the United States government has cancelled both the official (diplomatic) and tourist visas of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Embassy officials told PNA that they were formally notified of the revocation through official channels.
In its confirmation, the embassy did not disclose the basis for the U.S. action, citing the confidentiality of visa records under American law. “We were informed of the cancellation, but we cannot discuss the details because U.S. visa information is protected,” an embassy official told PNA.
State Department Silent on Specifics
The U.S. State Department, through its Bureau of Consular Affairs, carried out the cancellation. The revocation was described as effective immediately, consistent with Section 221(i) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, which authorizes the U.S. government to revoke visas at any time without prior notice.
When asked by reporters, a State Department spokesperson reiterated the agency’s standard position: “Visa records are confidential under U.S. law. We do not comment on individual visa cases.” This boilerplate response neither confirms nor denies the specifics of Romualdez’s situation but reflects long‑standing U.S. policy.
Context: Flood Control Corruption Allegations
Diplomatic sources familiar with the matter said the cancellation followed internal reviews into allegations surrounding the Philippine flood-control corruption scheme, a multi‑billion‑peso controversy involving infrastructure allocations. Whistleblowers and political critics have accused Romualdez of benefiting from anomalous projects, though he has denied any involvement, and no Philippine court has filed charges against him.
The U.S. government has not publicly linked the visa action to the corruption allegations, and no official statement has been issued explaining the decision.
Manila Still Verifying; No Palace Statement
In Manila, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it is “verifying the matter through official channels,” adding that visa decisions by foreign governments are “sovereign and administrative in nature.” DFA officials declined further comment, consistent with protocol.
Malacañang has not issued a statement. Lawmakers allied with Romualdez expressed surprise, while opposition figures urged transparency. “The public deserves clarity when high‑ranking officials face scrutiny abroad,” one opposition lawmaker said.
Romualdez Remains in Congress
Despite the visa cancellation, Romualdez remains a sitting member of the House of Representatives, representing Leyte’s 1st District. He previously served as House Majority Leader before becoming Speaker in 2022, a post he held until a leadership reorganization in late 2025.
Romualdez is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Philippine politics, known for his close ties to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his cousin, and for steering major administration priorities through Congress.
Political Career and Influence
First elected in 2007, Romualdez built a reputation as a skilled negotiator and party strategist. He chaired key committees, led the Lakas‑CMD party, and played a central role in budget negotiations and coalition‑building. Aggressive budget realignments, expanded social aid programs, and high‑profile congressional inquiries marked his speakership.
Critics accused him of consolidating power and using budget allocations to strengthen political alliances. Supporters credit him with stabilizing the House and advancing priority legislation.
No Statement Yet from Romualdez
As of press time, Romualdez has not issued a public statement regarding the U.S. visa cancellation. His office has not responded to requests for comment.
