Karen Davila Challenges House Deputy Speaker Over Budget Anomalies Linked to Former Speaker Romualdez

In a September 17 interview on ANC Headstart, broadcast journalist Karen Davila pressed House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno over accusations of substantial budget insertions and corruption involving former Speaker Martin Romualdez. Davila specifically questioned Puno about allegations linking Rep. Zaldy Co of the Ako Bicol party-list to irregular funding and claims that some lawmakers received kickbacks from flood-control projects.

When Puno attempted to defend Romualdez, Davila interjected, emphasizing the need for accountability from House leaders. She stated, "Well, congressman, I mean, I understand you work with him but, I think we need to hold our leaders accountable. He is a speaker of the House, the budget emanates from the House."

She further highlighted reports of Romualdez’s alleged ostentatious lifestyle, including ownership of multiple houses and private planes. "It’s appalling to the Filipino people to defend the speaker as if he were a victim. In the end, he would not even explain the corruption in the budget that he allowed. The House passed it, congressman," Davila added.

Davila underscored her point by comparing the current situation to past administrations, noting that public anger has now reached unprecedented levels due to these alleged corrupt acts. "This is not the time of the wealth you and I have seen in past administrations. Galit na tayo noon kay GMA, kay Erap, etcetera. This is a whole other level of alleged corruption," she said.

She also challenged the notion that Romualdez’s decision to step aside suffices as accountability, urging for greater transparency including filing statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN). "I mean, it’s very difficult to defend Martin who was in power, unless he submits his SALN, he explains. Stepping aside – I don’t think it’s enough for Filipino people. It’s not personal to me, but as a leader, this is inexcusable."

The interview segment rapidly went viral, drawing praise from viewers and commentators who applauded Davila’s direct approach in demanding responsibility from lawmakers suspected of mismanaging public funds.

One commentator wrote, "Thank you, Karen Davila, for speaking on behalf of many Filipinos." Another social media user remarked, "We need more voices like yours, unafraid to stand for truth and hold leaders accountable."

Filipino content creator KC Matta echoed the sentiment, expressing disbelief at Puno’s defense of Romualdez and emphasizing that the public are the true victims of such corruption. "Stop spinning this like Romualdez is the hero. He’s not doing us a favor; he’s simply doing what he should have done long ago," Matta said, calling for nationwide demand for transparency and justice.

Davila’s forthright interview style, though rare among journalists, resonated deeply with those pushing for greater integrity in government. This aligns her with other media figures known for holding public officials accountable in real-time.

Meanwhile, Puno stated that Romualdez resigned "because he wants to address and face all of this," referring to the controversies surrounding the 2025 national budget.

The public backlash highlights growing frustration over perceived misuse of public funds and underscores the demand for tangible accountability from elected officials.