MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman has formally lodged 39 court cases involving dozens of high-ranking officials and contractors linked to a massive flood control controversy.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla revealed the development during the release of his inaugural annual report on Monday, October 12, noting that a total of 52 individuals are currently facing formal charges.
The cases are distributed across judicial levels, with the majority lodged before the anti-graft court.
“Today, 39 flood control cases are before the courts: 35 in the Sandiganbayan, and four in the Regional Trial Courts,” Remulla stated.
He also hinted at further legal actions moving forward, adding, “Many more are under preliminary investigation and lifestyle checks.”
The indicted personalities comprise major political figures, including Senator Jinggoy Estrada and former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. Also facing charges are four House members: Tarlac 3rd District Representative Noel Rivera, Uswag Ilonggo Party-list Representative James Ang, former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co, and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez, along with a former Cabinet secretary, identified as former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
Additionally, the list of accused includes 33 personnel from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), eight private contractors, and several other individuals. The anti-graft body confirmed that while some of the accused have already been taken into custody, others remain at large.