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MANILA, Philippines — A sweeping investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects has resulted in official referrals recommending possible criminal charges against several lawmakers, former legislators, and government officials.

The findings stem from months of hearings and field inquiries focused on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), where witnesses and officials detailed suspected schemes involving padded budgets, substandard works, and alleged kickbacks tied to multi-billion-peso flood control projects.

The ongoing probe — led by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee alongside the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) — has produced case referrals to the Office of the Ombudsman recommending charges such as malversation, bribery, graft, and even plunder.

Lawmakers and Officials Named in Referrals

Among those included in the submitted recommendations are:

• Former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., for possible plunder and related offenses linked to alleged anomalies in flood control allocations and contractor transactions.
• Senator Jinggoy Estrada, recommended for investigation and potential filing of corruption-related complaints.
• Senator Joel Villanueva, similarly tagged for possible violations under anti-graft laws.
• Former Representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, now facing the first formal graft and malversation charges to arise from the flood control controversy.
• Former Congresswoman Mary Mitzi “Mitch” Cajayon-Uy, included in recommendations for prosecution.
• Several DPWH officials, contractors, and engineering personnel, who were identified for their alleged roles in facilitating fraudulent or irregular project transactions.

Testimonies That Sparked the Probe

The investigation was propelled by the statements of two key witnesses:

• Former DPWH district engineer Henry Alcantara, who claimed that certain lawmakers received kickbacks from flood control funds.
• Former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, who admitted to irregularities and described systemic issues involving “ghost” or substandard projects.

Their testimonies painted a picture of widespread corruption within select DPWH units and among certain political figures.

Status of the Cases

The Ombudsman is currently evaluating the submitted recommendations. While one case — involving former representative Zaldy Co — has already reached the Sandiganbayan, many of the referrals remain under review.

A dedicated task force under the Department of Justice has also been formed to support evidence-building and ensure the integrity of the investigation.

Wider Implications

Officials familiar with the review process say the flood control controversy may be one of the most extensive corruption cases to emerge in recent years. The scope of the alleged irregularities — spanning multiple districts, agencies, and political offices — suggests a deeply entrenched system of fund misuse that could reshape future oversight on infrastructure spending.

Despite the seriousness of the allegations, all individuals named in the referrals maintain the right to due process. Charges will only move forward once the Ombudsman determines that evidence meets prosecutorial standards.