MANILA, Philippines — Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez has been barred from leaving the country for a scheduled medical trip to Singapore, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday.
Remulla further revealed that the Ombudsman has already submitted a complaint to the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), which could lead to a freeze order on Romualdez’s assets.
“We already endorsed a complaint to them and are waiting for the AMLC to act,” Remulla said in a press briefing.
The supposed Singapore trip, set for Tuesday, was reportedly disapproved by the Ombudsman.
The case is linked to earlier discussions on possible plunder complaints involving Romualdez and other political figures, which are expected to move forward in the coming months.
Romualdez has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Online reactions were swift and divided. One social media user questioned the necessity of the trip, saying, “Why the doctors in the Philippines ain’t good enough?” while another bluntly remarked, “Laglagan time 
.”
Some commenters interpreted the situation as politically charged, with one saying, “Something fishy that’s been cooking lately.” Another added, “Political grandstanding ng Remulla bros.”
ia/xf
