Ex-DPWH official implicates senators in kickback scheme

Former Public Works and Highways undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has implicated former Secretary Manuel Bonoan and several other lawmakers in an alleged kickback scheme involving infrastructure projects.

Bernardo admitted to facilitating alleged kickbacks for Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Mark Villar, Education Secretary Sonny Angara, former senators Grace Poe and Nancy Binay, former Caloocan Representative Mitch Cajayon-Uy, San Jose del Monte Mayor Rida Robes, and former DPWH undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

He had previously accused Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero, former senators Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay, and Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co in connection with anomalous and ghost flood control projects.

Bernardo detailed how P125 million in kickbacks was allegedly prepared for Senator Bong Revilla, with the money delivered to his residence.

Senator Revilla allegedly received another P250 million in kickbacks in February.

Incumbent and former senators implicated in the flood control corruption scandal have issued denials.

Senators Mark Villar, Jinggoy Estrada and Francis Escudero, as well as former senators Grace Poe, Nancy Binay and Sonny Angara, have all denied receiving kickbacks.

Senator Villar stated Bernardo's allegations are a "malaking kasinungalingan" (big lie) and suggested the affidavit may be "manufactured or tailored fit."

Former Senator Grace Poe expressed sadness over the news and trust in the Department of Justice to investigate.