Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday stated that the decision on whether former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan should be discharged as a state witness lies solely with the Office of the Ombudsman. Marcos made this statement to reporters following his four-day state visit to Canada, in response to the Ombudsman's recent move.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has the authority to decide on making Bonoan a state witness. President Marcos expressed his full confidence in Remulla, emphasizing that decisions concerning the investigation into flood control anomalies are within the Ombudsman's jurisdiction. Marcos remarked, "If he feels that the former Secretary Manny Bonoan will be helpful to the cases with the other people, then again, it is his prerogative. It is his decision. It is his judgment."

Remulla had earlier announced his intention to make Bonoan a state witness, considering the former official's crucial testimony regarding the cases to be filed against those involved in the alleged anomalous flood control projects. Bonoan is currently facing a non-bailable PHP573-million plunder charge related to the alleged misappropriation of flood control funds. His request for house arrest has been "partially granted" due to his advanced age and life-threatening medical conditions.