Politics · Philippines Bureau
Witness claims 2% cut from kickbacks in graft case against former lawmaker
State witness Henry Alcantara testified before the Sandiganbayan that he received a 2 percent share of alleged kickbacks from former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co. The testimony was presented during proceedings in a case involving former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — State witness and former Public Works Undersecretary Henry Alcantara testified Tuesday before the Sandiganbayan's Third Division that he received a 2 percent cut of alleged kickbacks from former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co, describing the arrangement as "lambing" or a gentle request.
Alcantara's testimony forms part of the anti-graft court proceedings involving former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and related parties. The witness detailed the mechanics of the alleged kickback scheme during his appearance before the court's Third Division.
The case centers on allegations that government funds were diverted through fraudulent contracts and schemes, with Alcantara's position in the Department of Public Works and Highways allegedly enabling his participation in the arrangement. His testimony as a state witness is expected to provide crucial details about the structure and beneficiaries of the alleged scheme.
The Sandiganbayan continues to hear evidence in the case as prosecutors build their case against the respondents. Alcantara's account of his role and the distribution of alleged kickbacks represents a key element of the prosecution's narrative.