NBI Arrests Former DPWH Engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza After Senate Hearing
In a significant development, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) engineers Brice Hernandez and Jaypee Mendoza. The arrest occurred on Monday, January 19, 2026, after the two attended a Senate hearing, marking a pivotal moment in an ongoing legal saga.
Details of the Arrest and Senate Involvement
The Senate Office of the Sergeant at Arms handed over Hernandez and Mendoza to the NBI following their appearance at the hearing. This action was authorized by Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, who confirmed issuing the necessary warrant for their arrest. The engineers had been detained at the Senate since last year after being cited in contempt during a blue ribbon committee hearing investigating anomalies in flood control projects.
Connection to Graft and Malversation Case
Hernandez and Mendoza are co-accused with former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. in a graft and malversation of public funds case pending before the Sandiganbayan. The charges stem from alleged irregularities in public fund management, with the flood control anomaly being a central focus of the investigation.
Broader Implications and Other Accused Individuals
Beyond Revilla, Hernandez, and Mendoza, the Sandiganbayan Third Division has also issued arrest warrants for several other individuals involved in the case. These include:
- Arjay Domasig
- Juanito Mendoza
- Emelita Juat
- Christina Pineda
This case highlights ongoing efforts to address corruption and ensure accountability in government projects, particularly in infrastructure sectors like flood control managed by the DPWH.
