Senators Firmly Reject Accusations in DPWH Flood Control Project Investigation

Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero categorically denied any involvement in alleged irregularities related to government flood control projects, as claimed by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo during a Senate inquiry held on September 25. Bernardo implicated Escudero, along with former senators Nancy Binay and Ramon "Bong" Revilla, Jr., and Representative Zaldy Co in the events under scrutiny.

Escudero strongly rejected these accusations, stating, "I vehemently deny the malicious allegations and innuendos made by former DPWH Usec. Roberto Bernardo in today's Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. By his own admission, he never had any contact with me directly regarding this matter—and I will prove that he is lying about my alleged involvement."

He further suggested that the accusations might be part of a coordinated effort aimed at undermining the Senate and diverting public attention from the true wrongdoers. "It seems like there is a well-orchestrated plan to attack the Senate and its members to destroy and discredit the institution and to divert the public’s attention from the real perpetrators," Escudero said.

The senator also questioned why the probe has not focused on other officials such as Ako Bicol party-list Representative Zaldy Co and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez. "Why are only senators being targeted? Where is Zaldy Co? Where is Rep. Martin Romualdez in all this? Where are his accomplices? Based on Usec. Bernardo’s testimony, none of them appear to be implicated. This lacks credibility," Escudero asserted.

Reaffirming his intent to clear his name, Escudero announced plans to file a lawsuit against Bernardo for making unfounded accusations. "I will confront this head-on and seek appropriate legal action against Usec. Bernardo for his baseless allegations," the senator said.

Highlighting his extensive public service record, Escudero noted, "For more than 27 years in public service, I have never once been charged with corruption. That record speaks for itself. I believe that when all the facts are revealed, my name and my service will remain untarnished."

In a related development, Senator Nancy Binay also expressed disappointment over being implicated in the same investigation. "I am surprised and saddened to be dragged into the DPWH anomalies. The accusations against me are false," Binay said.

She emphasized her commitment to her duties, adding, "We work quietly as the Mayor of Makati. It is shocking that we are being used to divert attention from those who really need to be held accountable for this issue."

Binay concluded by highlighting her clean public service record: "It is easy to give false and destructive accounts. But my performance in public service has always been above board and beyond a shadow of doubt."