FLOOD CONTROL SCAM: NBI recommends filing of charges against high-profile personalities

National

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended the filing of criminal complaints against several high-profile personalities implicated in alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

The recommendation came following the testimony of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Thursday, Sept. 25.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the recommendation on Thursday, saying those identified by Bernardo could face charges including malversation of public funds and indirect bribery.

“After evaluating everything and the supplemental affidavit drawn up with his lawyers, the NBI recommended the filing of the complaints,” Remulla said in a Manila Bulletin report.

In his sworn affidavit, Bernardo linked Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero through businessman Maynard Ngu, former senators Ramon “Bong” Revilla and Nancy Binay, Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana, and Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar to the questionable projects.

Following his Senate appearance, Bernardo was brought to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to submit a supplemental affidavit providing additional details.

Remulla said the new testimony was meant to make his initial affidavit “actionable,” and noted that the process was carried out transparently with his legal team, the NBI, and the National Prosecution Service present.

The DOJ is also weighing Bernardo’s possible admission as a state witness.

Remulla explained that while Bernardo and several others are already under provisional protection, elevating them to state witness status will require further evaluation. Among those already placed in the Witness Protection Program (WPP) are dismissed DPWH Bulacan First District engineer Henry Alcantara, former assistant engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza, and contractor couple Cezarah “Sarah” and Pacifico “Curlee” Discaya.

Another individual seeking protection is Orly Regala Guteza, a former security aide of Rep. Co.

According to Remulla, Guteza has filed an affidavit requesting inclusion in the WPP, which the DOJ is now reviewing.