The Office of the Ombudsman is set to file two separate complaints for preliminary investigation against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, former lawmaker Zaldy Co, and other individuals allegedly linked to anomalous flood control projects, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said Monday.

Clavano announced that the cases will proceed after the Ombudsman completes its fact-finding investigation into the alleged irregularities surrounding flood control projects.

The complaints include charges of plunder and violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act against Romualdez, Co, and other respondents.

Clavano said the statements of eight Marines who served as security personnel for Romualdez formed part of the evidence gathered by the Ombudsman during its investigation.

He added that the respondents will be given the opportunity to submit their counter-affidavits once the preliminary investigation formally begins. The Ombudsman has yet to determine the specific period for the submission.

Meanwhile, Clavano warned law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant following intelligence reports received by the Ombudsman alleging that Romualdez had made several attempts to leave the country through back-channel arrangements.

“Former [House] Speaker Martin Romualdez has not ceased attempting to leave the country,” Clavano said.

“We are not done collecting evidence. We are not done filing cases. The investigation reveals more and more each day and each week,” he added.

Clavano did not disclose further details regarding the alleged attempts but said authorities should monitor developments as the investigation continues.