Politics · Philippines Bureau
Estrada linked to over P7 billion in budget 'initiatives' for 2025
Former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan testified before the Sandiganbayan that Senator Jinggoy Estrada secured more than P7 billion in congressional initiatives in the 2025 national budget. Bonoan submitted written testimony during a hearing on Estrada's bail petition.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan has alleged that Senator Jinggoy Estrada obtained over P7 billion in "congressional initiatives" through the 2025 budget allocation, according to testimony filed with the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division on Tuesday.
Bonoan submitted the written testimony while appearing as a witness during proceedings on Estrada's bail petition before the anti-graft court. The disclosure raises questions about budgetary allocations under congressional discretion during the administration's budget cycle.
The allegations form part of broader investigations being conducted by the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division into matters related to Estrada. The senator has previously declined to enter pleas in related proceedings, maintaining his position throughout the legal process.
Estrada's bail petition hearing continues as the court examines various testimonies and documentary evidence related to the case. The P7 billion in congressional initiatives represents a significant portion of discretionary spending attributable to a single senator during the budget year.