Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday stood firm on his innocence, denying any wrongdoing in connection with alleged flood control project anomalies and saying he is ready to face “due process” following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) remarks.

“Naninindigan ako na wala akong ginagawang anumang labag sa batas, at handa akong patunayan ito,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez issued the statement after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned him during his fifth SONA at the House of Representatives, emphasizing that he is the President of the nation—not of his family or friends.

Marcos said multiple cases are expected to be filed soon against his cousin, Romualdez, over his alleged involvement in the controversial flood control projects. The President also said the planned filing of cases by the Office of the Ombudsman was the right course of action.

In a statement, while it may be painful for him, Romualdez said he respects the President’s remarks and supports the conduct of due process regarding the allegations.

“Masakit man ito sa aming pamilya, iginagalang ko ang naging pahayag ng Pangulo. Hindi ako kailanman humingi ng pabor o espesyal na pagtrato,” Romualdez said.

He stressed that he never sought any special treatment and agreed that the proper process should be followed.

“Sang-ayon ako na gawin natin ang tama. Ang tama ay ang sumunod sa proseso at hayaan ang ebidensyang magsalita,” he added.

Romualdez’s office also emphasized his willingness to undergo the appropriate legal process and expressed confidence that the truth would eventually come out.

“Sa huli, ang mga ebidensya at mga dokumento ang mismong magpapatotoo,” his office said.