Contractor Denies Kickback Allegations, Confirms Senate Office Visit for Refurbishment

Mina Elamparo-Jose, contractor of WJ Construction who has been implicated in allegations of delivering kickbacks to senators, acknowledged visiting Senator Erwin Tulfo's office on August 19, 2025. She clarified that her visit was strictly related to assessing and suggesting solutions for an office refurbishment, specifically to address flooding issues, and not connected to any flood control projects under scrutiny.

During the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing on September 18, Jose was questioned about her presence in the Senate. She explained, "Senator Erwin's office has a recurring problem with flooding during heavy rains. I was referred by one of his staff to conduct an ocular inspection and propose possible solutions."

The hearing also revisited prior statements by former Department of Public Works and Highways assistant district engineer Brice Hernandez, who accused Jose of delivering "obligations" or kickbacks to Senate members. Jose strongly denied these claims, asserting her innocence emphatically.

"I have never given nor received any money from any public official or government employee, including Mr. Brice Hernandez. I categorically reject these unfounded and malicious accusations made during the Congressional hearings," she declared emotionally.

Jose further sought to clarify misunderstandings regarding Beng Ramos, a Senate employee she visited during her time in the Senate. Ramos, associated with the Blue Ribbon Oversight Office Management (BROOM), was previously identified by Hernandez as a staff member of Senator Jinggoy Estrada, a claim Jose disputed.

"To the best of my knowledge, Beng Ramos has never worked for Senator Estrada or any other senator or congressman. She is a dedicated government employee under BROOM and has no involvement in any controversy, especially related to the questioned flood control projects," Jose stated.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, chairman of the blue ribbon panel, excused Ramos from the hearing due to her battle with Stage 4 cancer.

Addressing the committee, Jose emphasized her intention to clear her name and protect her company's reputation built over decades of honest work.

"WJ Construction has completed numerous private and government projects with integrity, without ghost contracts or substandard work. Our clients can attest to our dedication and standards," she affirmed.

Regarding her visit to the Senate, Jose described it as a personal visit to a friend rather than a business engagement. "My apologies if my presence caused misunderstandings. I went to see Beng Ramos, who has been battling cancer, and I had not seen her for a long time. It was a personal visit, not related to any project or transaction," she explained in response to Senator Tulfo.

The ongoing Senate inquiry continues to examine the alleged improprieties involving flood control projects and the individuals linked to the controversy.