Lakas–Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), the ruling party led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, has issued a forceful statement reiterating its “full and unwavering support” for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration, as political tensions rise over corruption allegations and revived drug-use claims made by Senator Imee Marcos.
In a statement released Tuesday, November 18, the party emphasized its commitment to the rule of law and due process while rejecting attempts to draw the President into controversies surrounding alleged budget insertions and the ongoing flood control investigations. “Hindi kami matinag—buong-buo ang suporta ng Lakas-CMD kay Pangulong Marcos, sa gawa at hindi sa salita,” the party declared.
Lakas-CMD said accusations made outside sworn proceedings carry no weight and must be addressed only in proper venues. The party pointed to ongoing inquiries by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, the Department of Justice, and the Office of the Ombudsman, stressing that these institutions should be allowed to evaluate evidence “fairly, impartially, and strictly on the basis of evidence.” It added, “Hindi puwedeng chismis ang basehan ng hustisya.”
The statement also defended Marcos Jr.’s handling of government funds, saying he has consistently shown “prudence, transparency, and respect for lawful budget procedures.” Lakas-CMD dismissed insinuations that the President had sanctioned wrongdoing in the budget process, insisting there was “no ‘green light’ sa katiwalian” and that his instructions were clear: “follow the law.”
The party’s message comes just days after Senator Imee Marcos publicly claimed that her brother struggled with drug use since childhood—remarks that triggered a sharp rebuttal from Malacañang. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro earlier branded the senator’s statements as a “desperate move” and reminded the public that the President tested negative for drug use in 2021. Castro said the allegations were meant “to malign” the First Couple and could be an attempt to deflect attention from ongoing corruption probes.
Lakas-CMD urged the public to focus on verified facts rather than political drama. “Kung may ebidensya, ilabas,” the party said, adding that justice should not be reduced to a “public spectacle.” It stressed that its members remain ready to cooperate with any lawful investigation, but warned against narratives “built on speculation, personal grievances, or recollections delivered outside official processes.”
The party called on officials, media, and the public to allow democratic institutions to operate without pressure or political noise, saying only then can “the truth emerge, accountability be properly assigned, and public trust strengthened.”
“Lakas-CMD stands firm, united, and guided by the rule of law,” the statement ended. “Nagkakaisa. Nasa tama.”
