Martin Romualdez has resigned as House Speaker, in the hopes that the public will once again place its trust in the lower chamber as the President’s newly-formed Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) begins its indiscriminate probe into anomalous flood control projects and other government projects.

“The issue surrounding certain infrastructure projects have raised questions that weigh not only upon me, but upon this institution we all serve. Ang ating mga kababayan ay naghahangad ng linaw at higit sa lahat, ng tiwala. Tungkulin nating ito’y maibalik,” Romualdez said during his speech on Wednesday.

“The longer I stay, the heavier that burden grows on me, on this House, and on the President I have always sought to support,” he continued. “And so, after deep reflection and prayer, I have made the decision today, with a full heart and a clear conscience, I tender my resignation as Speaker of the House of Representatives.”

Romualdez explained that by stepping down, the ICI could proceed with its investigation untroubled by speculations of interference and overall distrust.

“I do this so that the Independent Commission on Infrastructure may pursue its mandate freely and fully, without doubt, without interference, without undue influence. Walang pipigil, walang makikialam,” he said.

“Let the truth emerge, and let justice be done,” he added.

Romualdez’s resignation comes amid allegations of corruption, particularly questionable budget insertions for anomalous flood control projects, under his leadership.