MANILA — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed that intermediaries linked to a contractor and a sitting congressman — who is also a contractor — allegedly attempted to bribe him and Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla amid an ongoing investigation into corruption surrounding flood control projects.
In a radio interview, Remulla said the alleged bribery attempts came from two separate groups based in different parts of the country and were coursed through go-betweens, not made directly.
“Dalawa na nga. Dalawang grupo na ang (nag-attempt) nanuhol sa amin… Isang contractor at isang congressman na contractor. Opo times two na po. Isang grupong Visayas-Mindanao, isang grupong Luzon,” Remulla said.
He said the supposed offers totaled about ₱2 billion and were aimed at seeking help in resolving the legal problems faced by those implicated in the flood control controversy.
“Gusto nilang tulungan namin sila sa kaso nila. Matanggal sila sa listahan, bigyan ng bail, iyon ang mga hinihingi nila,” he added.
Remulla explained that no immediate arrests followed because the offers were allegedly conveyed indirectly, making them easy to deny and difficult to prove beyond what he described as hearsay.
He also clarified that he did not personally reach out to either the congressman or the contractor involved, saying he does not know them and that such actions fall outside his official duties.
Asked how the Ombudsman reacted upon learning of the alleged attempts, Remulla said his brother brushed it off lightly.
“Natawa nga siya, sabi, ‘Ganiyan ba kaliit ang tingin sa atin? Ganiyan na lang ba?’” he said.
The claims surfaced as authorities intensify scrutiny of flood control projects nationwide amid growing concerns over the possible misuse of public funds./PN
