Screengrab from PTV

In a surprising turn of events, former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan 1st District Assistant Engineer Brice Ericson Hernandez voluntarily surrendered a luxury vehicle to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The handover took place this Friday, September 19, as Hernandez appeared before the commission for an in-depth investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

According to Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chairperson Panfilo Lacson, Senate President Tito Sotto approved a special request allowing Hernandez to leave the Senate temporarily. This move was to enable him to gather evidence he claimed to have. Lacson clarified that the contempt order against Hernandez was not lifted, describing his temporary release as a simple pass.

"He just requested for permission to go out and look for evidence, and Senate President Sotto approved my request for him to be escorted out by the OSAA," Lacson stated. "The contempt will not be removed."

Baguio City Mayor and ICI Special Adviser Benjamin Magalong announced that Hernandez is expected to surrender more luxury vehicles, including a Ferrari valued at approximately P58 million and a Lamborghini worth P30 to P40 million, as well as several high-end motorcycles. Magalong said these surrenders are part of Hernandez’s cooperation with the ongoing investigation into the alleged anomalies in Bulacan's flood control projects.

The surrender of these high-value assets is seen as a significant development in the government's crackdown on corruption and could provide crucial evidence in the case. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as they unfold.