By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman has formally filed multiple criminal and administrative complaints against Senator Jinggoy Estrada and several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) over alleged irregularities involving controversial multi-million peso flood control projects.
According to the complainants’ lawyer, Atty. Mico Clavano, the charges include alleged violations of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, in connection with the implementation and handling of the infrastructure projects.
Included in the complaints are DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, former DPWH-NCR Regional Director Gerald Polensia, along with Henry Alcantara, Bonding Ratan, Dendry Lester Fortuna, Mario Bulusan, Arturo Gonzales, and several other individuals allegedly involved in the projects.
The controversy erupted after allegations surfaced regarding possible anomalies in the implementation of flood control programs, including questionable fund disbursements, project execution, and the alleged misuse of public funds intended for flood mitigation efforts in vulnerable communities.
Investigators are reportedly looking into whether the projects were properly implemented and if government resources were used in accordance with procurement and anti-corruption laws.
Authorities have yet to disclose the complete details of the complaints, including the total amount involved and the specific flood control projects being investigated.
However, the Office of the Ombudsman is expected to conduct a press briefing to provide additional information regarding the legal basis of the charges and the next steps in the proceedings.
The filing of the complaints marks a major development in the government’s ongoing campaign against alleged corruption and misuse of public funds, particularly in large-scale infrastructure and flood control programs funded by taxpayers.
As of this writing, the accused officials have yet to issue their official statements regarding the allegations filed against them.
ia/xf
