Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the recovery of PHP841 million in cash from fraudulent flood control projects. The recovered funds have been remitted to the National Treasury through the Land Bank of the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DOJ emphasized its ongoing efforts to hold accountable those responsible for the ghost flood control projects. The department expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his support of the National Prosecution Service, as highlighted during his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The DOJ conveyed the President's clear message that recovered funds belong to the Filipino people and that those who violated public trust will face legal consequences. The department reiterated its commitment to working with the Office of the Ombudsman to ensure justice is served, adhering to the rule of law and meeting legal standards in court.
The DOJ disclosed that the recovered money came from four individuals under the government's Witness Protection Program. Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo returned PHP500 million in tranches from January 13 to May 29. Former DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara returned PHP181.4 million, suspended National Capital Region District Engineer Gerard Opulencia surrendered PHP140 million, and SYMS Construction Trading owner Sally Santos returned PHP20 million.
