Ex-president Duterte links Romualdez with reds for 2028 polls; Speaker denies

Former President Rodrigo Duterte has accused the Speaker of the House of Representatives of conspiring with communists in the latter's plan to run for President.

Martin Romualdez said the report that he was running for higher office is just a rumor and that he is focused on his current job, Saleema Refran reported on "Saksi" Friday.

"Bantayan ninyo ang military pati pulis. Kayong nakipagkonsabo.... hindi ko kayo tinatakot. Pero, bantayan ninyo ang military pati pulis. Ilan ang namatay at pinatay ninyo na pulis pati militar," said Duterte on SMNI News Channel.

In his statement, Duterte implied that Romualdez has allied with communists in connection with his plan to run for President in the year 2028.

"Yung mga gustong... ibigay mo na ang bayan sa kanila and let us see what will happen to this country. Mag experiment tayo, ako, ako... sabihin ko sa inyo bumoto kayo. Ikaw Romualdez, huwag ka na... ako na ang mag kampanya sa ýo ngayon na. Gusto mo mag-Presidente?," Duterte said, adding that he is not worried because the military is there.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., who was quizzed by journalists on the issue while he was at the Senate, did not answer the question and only asked for details.

Romualdez, in a statement, said "As Speaker of the House of Representatives, my priority is to promote unity and collaboration across all political lines."

"This is a time to put aside rumors and speculations about future elections and concentrate on what we can achieve together for the betterment of our country and the welfare of the Filipino people," he added.

On his political aspirations, Romualdez said "I am currently committed to my role as Speaker and serving the needs of our nation. My focus is on the present responsibilities and not on future electoral possibilities."

GMA Integrated News is still in the process of getting a statement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). — BAP, GMA Integrated News