Ex-DPWH Official Implicates Senator in Flood Control Project Kickback Scandal

A former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official has implicated Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero in a significant alleged kickback racket tied to government-funded flood control projects, deepening an ongoing corruption investigation.

In a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing, ex-DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo disclosed that he personally delivered ₱160 million—equivalent to 20 percent of projects valued at around ₱800 million—to Maynard Ngu, a known associate and campaign donor of Senator Escudero.

"I delivered 20 percent of approximately ₱800 million or about ₱160 million [to] Maynard Ngu, which was meant for Senator Escudero," Bernardo testified before the Senate panel.

Senator Escudero, who was removed from his position as Senate president amid the controversy, has consistently denied allegations of receiving commissions from these contracts.

Bernardo also accused a staff member of former Senator and current Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay of demanding a 15-percent cut, roughly ₱37 million, from infrastructure deals slated for 2024. According to Bernardo, he personally handed over the bribe at a Quezon City residence.

This testimony supports earlier statements by dismissed DPWH engineer Henry Alcantara, who implicated Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co and former Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. in the elaborate corruption network.

These revelations have intensified scrutiny on the involvement of multiple high-profile political figures in the misappropriation of public infrastructure funds, fueling calls for further investigation and accountability.