MANILA, Philippines – Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara testified that an alleged kickback scheme involving government infrastructure projects had existed long before Martin Romualdez became House Speaker and Zaldy Co assumed the chairmanship of the House Committee on Appropriations.

According to Alcantara, the alleged practice was already in place before the two lawmakers occupied their respective leadership positions in the House of Representatives.

His testimony came amid an investigation into alleged corruption and irregularities in government infrastructure projects.

However, Alcantara’s reported statements did not establish whether the alleged scheme began before or after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assumed office in June 2022.

The allegations remain subject to investigation, with authorities seeking to establish the extent of the reported irregularities and identify those responsible.