Politics · Philippines Bureau
Ex-DPWH official denies any dealings with Romualdez in plunder case
State witness Roberto Bernardo, a former undersecretary at the Department of Public Works and Highways, testified Thursday that he had no transactions or arrangements with former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Bernardo's statement came during a bail hearing for Romualdez, who faces plunder charges involving alleged kickbacks totaling P7.44 billion.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Roberto Bernardo, who previously served as undersecretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways, testified before the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Thursday, distancing himself from any involvement with former Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Appearing as a state witness during Romualdez's bail hearing, Bernardo stated that he never conducted any business or maintained dealings with the former House leader. The testimony forms part of proceedings in the plunder case against Romualdez, which centers on allegations of kickbacks valued at approximately P7.44 billion.
The bail hearing represents a critical juncture in the high-profile case against Romualdez, with prosecutors and defense teams presenting evidence and witness accounts to determine whether the former Speaker should be granted bail pending trial. Bernardo's direct testimony regarding his lack of connection to Romualdez could bear significance on the prosecution's case.
The plunder charges against Romualdez involve allegations that he misappropriated public funds through irregular transactions during his tenure in government positions, with the kickback scheme at the center of prosecution arguments.