The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has urged the Office of the Ombudsman to file criminal charges against Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, resigned Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, and several others allegedly involved in anomalous flood control projects.
In its Interim Report released Wednesday, the ICI also named former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana, and ex-Caloocan Representative Mary Cajayon-Uy among those recommended for prosecution.
“These persons have possibly committed these following violations: direct or indirect bribery and corruption of public officials, corruption of public officers, and plunder,” the report stated.
The findings were based on sworn affidavits and supporting evidence from former DPWH-Bulacan officials, who detailed a “kickback scheme” wherein lawmakers allegedly inserted flood control projects into the National Expenditure Program and General Appropriations Act in exchange for 20 to 30 percent commissions.
Payments were reportedly funneled through DPWH engineers and contractors to secure project approvals and releases, leading to inflated costs, poor-quality construction, and the misuse of billions in public funds.
“Their alleged participation appears to constitute violations of Articles 210–212 of the Revised Penal Code on bribery and corruption of public officers, Sections 3(b) and 3(c) of Republic Act No. 3019, and Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7080,” the ICI said.
However, the commission clarified that its report “does not make categorical findings of guilt,” noting that the final determination of liability lies with proper authorities.
“This Interim Report is intended to assist in ensuring accountability in infrastructure projects and in protecting the integrity of public funds,” it added.
