The cases involving Senator Chiz Escudero and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez in connection with alleged irregularities in government flood control projects remain at the preliminary investigation stage, according to the Office of the Ombudsman.

Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said the complaints are currently undergoing initial evaluation and fact-finding procedures as part of standard investigative processes before the filing of formal charges, if warranted.

The development follows earlier statements from Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, who said that possible charges of plunder may be considered against Escudero, while money laundering allegations were being looked into in relation to Romualdez.

Clavano also noted that Romualdez’s case is still in the fact-finding stage, while Escudero has already been directed to respond to the allegations as part of the ongoing anti-graft proceedings.

The complaints stem from reported irregularities in flood control projects that have been the subject of multiple investigations by various government bodies.

Both Escudero and Romualdez previously held top leadership positions in the 19th Congress, serving as Senate President and House Speaker, respectively, during the period when the projects under scrutiny were implemented or reviewed.