CCTV Footage of Former House Speaker Martin Romualdez Inside QC Jail Dormitory Amid Escape Allegations, Released by BJMP
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has released CCTV footage showing former House Speaker Martin Romualdez inside the Quezon City Jail–Male Dormitory following allegations that he had been secretly leaving the detention facility.
On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the video was shared after claims circulated on social media that Romualdez was allegedly allowed to leave jail while the electricity was switched off to prevent security cameras from recording his movements.
According to BJMP spokesperson Jayrex Bustinera, an initial review of the CCTV recordings showed no power or surveillance camera interruptions at the facility. The review also found no recorded movement showing Romualdez leaving the detention center during the period examined.
BJMP Jail Director Efren Nemeño has ordered an investigation into the allegations to determine whether any irregularities took place.
The issue gained attention after broadcaster Ramon Tulfo shared information from a source claiming that the jail superintendent allegedly ordered power interruptions whenever Romualdez left the facility.
The source also claimed that an ambulance would wait near the rear staircase to transport him.
Tulfo urged investigators to examine the facility’s power interruption records to help verify the claims.
Despite the allegations, the BJMP stressed that its initial CCTV verification did not show any evidence supporting the reported secret trips outside the jail.
The agency also emphasized that all persons deprived of liberty must follow the same rules, regardless of their position or status. Any movement outside the detention facility must have proper court approval.
Romualdez is currently detained at the Quezon City Jail in connection with a P7.44-billion plunder case involving alleged kickbacks from flood control, infrastructure, and other government projects covering the period from 2022 to 2025.
The BJMP said its investigation is ongoing and encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward as authorities work to establish the facts.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident:
