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Ex-DPWH Usec Bernardo Applies As State Witness; Skips ICI Hearing
Photo credit: Senate PH
Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has formally applied to become a state witness, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) confirmed on Monday, Nov. 17.
ICI spokesperson Brian Keith Hosaka said Bernardo submitted a letter informing the commission that he could not attend the scheduled hearing due to restrictions tied to his ongoing application under the Witness Protection Program (WPP). Bernardo claimed the program’s confidentiality rule prevents him from appearing before the commission while his application is being processed.
This is the second time Bernardo has skipped an ICI hearing.
Despite his absence, Bernardo filed his second supplemental affidavit, which reflects the testimony he previously delivered during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing. His statements detail alleged irregularities in flood control projects and implicate several officials.
Hosaka said the commission is currently evaluating Bernardo’s application and reviewing his new affidavit, noting that his cooperation may significantly influence the direction of the investigation.
Bernardo’s repeated absences come as he moves closer to securing potential state witness status, which could grant him immunity in exchange for crucial testimony in the expanding infrastructure corruption probe.
ICI spokesperson Brian Keith Hosaka said Bernardo submitted a letter informing the commission that he could not attend the scheduled hearing due to restrictions tied to his ongoing application under the Witness Protection Program (WPP). Bernardo claimed the program’s confidentiality rule prevents him from appearing before the commission while his application is being processed.
This is the second time Bernardo has skipped an ICI hearing.
Despite his absence, Bernardo filed his second supplemental affidavit, which reflects the testimony he previously delivered during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing. His statements detail alleged irregularities in flood control projects and implicate several officials.
Hosaka said the commission is currently evaluating Bernardo’s application and reviewing his new affidavit, noting that his cooperation may significantly influence the direction of the investigation.
Bernardo’s repeated absences come as he moves closer to securing potential state witness status, which could grant him immunity in exchange for crucial testimony in the expanding infrastructure corruption probe.
Nov 17, 2025
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