Former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo Designated as Protected Witness in DOJ Investigation

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced on Thursday that former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has been granted protected witness status and will receive security measures.\n\nIn an impromptu interview, Remulla confirmed that Bernardo is currently undergoing evaluation but is already considered protected. "For evaluation," he stated when questioned about Bernardo's inclusion in the Witness Protection Program, adding, "But he is considered a protected witness. We will provide him with security."\n\nRemulla and Bernardo were seen arriving at the Department of Justice (DOJ) following a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing investigating irregularities in flood control projects. The DOJ will assess Bernardo's testimony as part of the ongoing probe.\n\nDuring the hearing, Bernardo implicated several politicians, including Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero, former Senators Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay, as well as Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Zaldy Co.\n\nThe day prior, Remulla confirmed that contractors Curlee and Sarah Disacaya, along with former DPWH officials Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza, have been designated as protected witnesses. However, he emphasized that these individuals have not yet attained the status of state witnesses.\n\nThis development strengthens the DOJ's pursuit of accountability amidst allegations of corruption involving flood control projects within the DPWH.