Senator Jinggoy Estrada Expresses Willingness to Open Bank Accounts Amid Corruption Allegations

Senator Jinggoy Estrada announced on Monday, September 15, his willingness to sign a waiver to allow investigation into his bank accounts. Speaking during a Senate plenary session, Estrada emphasized his openness to scrutiny even before the Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by Senator Ping Lacson, commences its hearings.

"I am open to any investigation. Mr. President, even though Senator Lacson's Blue Ribbon Committee has yet to start, I am willing to sign any waiver to open my bank accounts," Estrada stated.

He also criticized what he described as selective targeting of senators in corruption probes, questioning why only senators seem to face such intense scrutiny compared to other politicians.

"Why do they only want to crucify us senators? Why not apply the same to other politicians? Is it because we're well-known? That is unfair. We are all serving in the government, serving the people equally," he said.

Estrada made these remarks following allegations presented by former Department of Public Works and Highways engineer Brice Hernandez, who implicated him in a corruption scandal involving flood control projects. During a recent House inquiry, Hernandez claimed Estrada received a 30-percent kickback from a P355 million allocation meant for flood control initiatives.

Estrada strongly denied these accusations, questioning the validity of the claims and asserting his commitment to integrity.

"How can I demand 30 percent? What is his basis? I have been here for a long time and I take care of my reputation. Why would I engage in such conduct? I would never do that. Is this because I am active in the Blue Ribbon Committee? Because I am doing my job?" he asked.

Hernandez had presented photos showing Estrada with former Bulacan engineering district head Henry Alcantara, as well as screenshots of messages allegedly involving a staff member named Beng Ramos.

Estrada countered these assertions by clarifying that he has never had a staff member named Beng Ramos since joining the Senate in 2004. He further explained that Ramos was affiliated with the Blue Ribbon Committee staff and previously dated one of his Senate aides.