DPWH Executive Returns P40 Million to DOJ Over Alleged Flood Control Kickbacks
₱40 million has been returned to the Department of Justice (DOJ), by a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official, an amount alleged to be part of kickbacks linked to anomalous flood control projects.
DPWH Regional Director Gerard Opulencia turned over the money on Tuesday as part of the conditions set for his acceptance as a state witness in the ongoing investigation into irregular flood control projects. Opulencia is a former DPWH National Capital Region (NCR) director and is currently on floating status.
DOJ Acting Secretary Fredderick A. Vida presented the ₱40 million to the media on December 16, confirming that the amount forms part of a larger commitment under an agreement signed by Opulencia with the DOJ.
“Ito ay commitment na magsa-uli ng P150 milyon,” said Vida, adding that the ₱40 million represents an initial payment under the agreement.
Vida also said that Opulencia has been provisionally admitted to the Witness Protection Program (WPP).
According to Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon, Opulencia is among the respondents in cases of malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents, which have already undergone preliminary investigation by the DOJ. The cases are connected to alleged ghost projects awarded to Syms Construction in the towns of Balagtas and Pandi in Bulacan.
Fadullon noted that five cases are involved, with respondents that include former senator Bong Revilla and former congressman Zaldy Co.
Vida explained that Opulencia’s testimony is considered crucial, particularly regarding what actually transpired in Bulacan. He clarified that Opulencia did not receive money from the Bulacan projects and that the funds returned to the DOJ were allegedly obtained when Opulencia was still serving as NCR director.
