MANILA – The Office of the Ombudsman is poised to file criminal charges before the Sandiganbayan by November against individuals implicated in the massive flood control corruption scandal, which has rocked several government agencies and exposed billions of pesos in questionable projects.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla said during a press briefing that the investigation — initiated under former acting Ombudsman Dante Vargas — has reached an advanced stage, with multiple cases ready for filing.
“By November, marami na tayong mapa-file by that time,” Remulla said, stressing that the filing of charges is an “urgent matter” that can no longer be delayed.
He said his office has been coordinating closely with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to finalize evidence gathering and case buildup.
“Wrapping up na ‘yun,” Remulla said. “Remember, the NPS stepped into it because of the witness protection function of the DOJ. Kaya kami na-involved diyan. Otherwise, hindi talaga naming trabaho ‘yan. NBI lang ‘yan.”
According to Remulla, the Ombudsman is assessing which cases are already “ripe” for filing.
“Pero tingnan namin. Kung may hinog na, pa-file namin agad,” he said.
He also revealed that he would consult both the Supreme Court and the Sandiganbayan on the possible creation of a special division within the anti-graft court to exclusively handle the flood control cases for faster resolution.
To strengthen the prosecution’s case, Remulla disclosed that one individual is being evaluated for inclusion in the Witness Protection Program (WPP).
“Meron kaming kino-consider. You’ll find out. Malapit na ‘yan, konting evaluation na lang. May isa na kaming nako-consider,” he said, refusing to name the potential state witness.
Several contractors and former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have been tagged in the alleged fund anomalies. Some have reportedly expressed willingness to cooperate in exchange for leniency or state witness status.
Remulla vowed that his office would pursue all those involved in the scandal regardless of rank or position.
“The era of impunity must end,” he declared. “We owe it to the Filipino people to make sure every centavo in public works truly serves the public.”/PN
