BI: HDOs issued against Romualdez, Co, 2 others over flood control mess

September 17, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

The Bureau of Immigration on Thursday confirmed the implementation of hold departure orders issued by the Sandiganbayan against former Speaker Martin Romualdez, his aide Joselyn Serenio, businessman Felicito Cristobal Guevarra, and ex-congressman Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co in connection with the flood control mess.

Based on the latest available immigration records, Romualdez and Guevarra remain in the Philippines, while Co and Serenio are currently outside the country.

The two individuals had already departed the Philippines prior to the issuance of the HDO.

“The BI will continue to strictly enforce the HDO and undertake appropriate immigration measures within its mandate,” it said in a statement.

The BI said it cannot disclose specific travel details or other personal information concerning the individuals, in compliance with the 2012 Data Privacy Act.

Romualdez was recently transferred to the Quezon City Jail following his brief confinement at the Philippine General Hospital.

Recently, the Ombudsman filed a P 7.4 billion plunder case against him and co-respondents Co, Serenio, and Guevarra over the flood control mess.