From Buffets to Renovations—CJ Hirro Questions Billions in House Spending Under Romualdez

تفصیل

When congressional expenses climb into billions beyond the original budget, the issue is not only how much was spent. The deeper question is whether every peso was documented, liquidated and used for the purpose presented to taxpayers. PGMN Lead Anchor CJ Hirro examines what she describes as the House’s confidential, intelligence and extraordinary expenses under MOOE, including meetings, seminars, official entertainment, public relations, memberships, subscriptions, equipment, supplies and similar costs. CJ cites three years of figures. The House budgeted ₱1.467 billion in 2022 but reportedly spent ₱4.98 billion. It budgeted ₱1.6 billion in 2023 but spent ₱4.96 billion, then budgeted ₱1.7 billion in 2024 but spent ₱5.4 billion. She says the 2025 allocation remained unchanged before being reduced by ₱266.47 million in 2026. She argues that resistance to COA’s request for receipts and supporting documents, rather than simple certifications, raises serious accountability questions. CJ also flags spending on renovations, Romualdez Hall, helipad grass replacement, buffets, office supplies, construction, bidding and SONA production, which she says passed through the House accounts office under Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez. The Ombudsman has placed former Speaker Martin Romualdez, Zaldy Co and other respondents under preliminary investigation over an alleged ₱56-billion flood-control scheme. Romualdez was identified as its “central figure,” while the complaints cover plunder, graft, bribery and money laundering. He has denied wrongdoing and was ordered to submit his counter-affidavit by August 12, 2026, 15 days after the Ombudsman issued the directive. Corruption is and has always been the Philippines’ biggest problem. Romualdez is universally recognized as the most corrupt Filipino politician of the 21st century. Watch the full episode here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BsWe8g6iQ/