World · Philippines Bureau
Ex-DPWH chief Bonoan arraigned in final graft case over flood projects
Former Department of Public Works and Highways chief Manuel Bonoan faced arraignment Friday before the Sandiganbayan over his remaining graft case linked to an alleged kickback scheme in flood control projects. The Office of the Ombudsman has accepted his offer to serve as a state witness.
LSN Philippines ·
Bonoan appeared before the Sandiganbayan Second Division for the arraignment proceedings on Friday, addressing the charges stemming from his alleged participation in irregular transactions involving flood mitigation infrastructure. The case centers on accusations that public funds allocated for flood control initiatives were diverted through a kickback arrangement.
The Ombudsman's decision to accept Bonoan as a state witness marks a significant development in the case, potentially shifting the former official's legal position. The move suggests prosecutors view his testimony as valuable to establishing the scope and mechanics of the alleged scheme.
The Sandiganbayan, the anti-corruption court with jurisdiction over graft cases involving high-ranking government officials, will oversee the proceedings. Bonoan's arraignment on the remaining charges comes as investigations into irregularities within the DPWH continue to draw scrutiny from accountability agencies.
The case reflects broader concerns about procurement integrity in major public works programs, particularly those aimed at protecting communities from flooding and natural disasters.