Politics · Philippines Bureau
Former DPWH official to testify in graft case against ex-lawmaker Co
A former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary is expected to take the witness stand at the anti-graft court to testify against an ex-congressman and his co-accused in a case involving a purportedly substandard road infrastructure project.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Roberto Bernardo, a former undersecretary at the Department of Public Works and Highways, is scheduled to appear before the Sandiganbayan as a state witness in a graft case targeting former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co and other accused parties.
The case centers on allegations of corruption surrounding a road dike project in Oriental Mindoro that prosecutors contend was constructed below required standards. Assistant Special Prosecutor Peter Jedd Boco indicated that Bernardo's testimony will be crucial to establishing the facts of the case.
The Sandiganbayan, the Philippines' dedicated anti-graft court, is hearing the case against Co and his co-accused. The involvement of Bernardo as a state witness suggests his position within the public works department provided him with direct knowledge of the disputed project and any irregularities that may have occurred.
The case forms part of ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting officials accused of misusing public funds or tolerating substandard work on infrastructure projects meant to serve the public.