The Department of Justice (DOJ) said the preliminary investigation into plunder complaints against Senator Jinggoy Estrada and former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. over alleged irregularities in flood control projects will begin soon.
At a news forum in Quezon City, Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon said subpoenas would be issued by “next week,” formally starting the process.
“I believe by next week, this coming week, we will be issuing the subpoenas already in connection with those cases. Meaning to say, magsisimula na ang preliminary investigation sa kanila,” Fadullon said.
The complaints were filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and involve questioned flood control projects in Bulacan and other transactions.
Estrada, Revilla, and former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Zaldy Co were charged with violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
Revilla was linked to the controversy after former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo alleged that he delivered ₱125 million to Revilla’s residence in 2024 and another ₱250 million through an aide ahead of the 2025 elections.
Bernardo also claimed that Estrada sought ₱500 million in funding from former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, with an 18% commitment included in the budget, and later pushed to complete ₱1 billion worth of projects.
He alleged that he delivered a 25% commitment amounting to ₱213 million to Estrada at the Artiaga Building in San Juan City in 2025, which the senator allegedly acknowledged.
Both Revilla and Estrada have denied receiving kickbacks from flood control projects.