The August Twenty-One Movement (ATOM) has called for a deeper investigation into allegations that former House Speaker Martin Romualdez received special treatment at his detention facility, including claims that he was allowed to leave his cell during a power interruption.
ATOM Chairperson Volt Bohol said it is better for the public to remain vigilant, even “paranoid,” than stay silent amid allegations involving powerful personalities.
In an interview with Brigada NewsFM Manila, Bohol stressed the importance of keeping the issue under public scrutiny to ensure it does not disappear from public attention.
He also questioned whether the closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage released by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) was sufficient to dismiss the allegations, saying a more thorough investigation remains necessary.
Bohol emphasized that authorities must ensure influential individuals do not receive special privileges and that all detainees are treated equally, regardless of their social standing.
However, he also urged the public to exercise caution when sharing information and avoid drawing conclusions before the allegations are established.
The allegations involving Romualdez have raised questions about equal treatment inside detention facilities and the need for accountability in the handling of detainees.
