Former DPWH Engineers Plead Not Guilty to Graft Charges in Sandiganbayan
In a significant development at the Sandiganbayan, former engineers from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan First District Engineering Office, Brice Hernandez and JP Mendoza, have formally entered not guilty pleas to graft charges filed against them. This legal action is directly connected to an alleged anomalous flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan, which has been under scrutiny for irregularities.
Details of the Alleged Ghost Project
The case revolves around a flood control initiative that was reportedly valued at over P92.8 million. Investigations later revealed that this project was classified as a ghost project, meaning it may not have been implemented as intended or could involve fraudulent activities. The allegations suggest mismanagement or corruption in the handling of public funds allocated for infrastructure development in the region.
Additional Defendant in the Case
Joining Hernandez and Mendoza in pleading not guilty is Christina Pineda, a cashier implicated in the same graft case. All three individuals are facing charges that stem from their alleged involvement in the Pandi flood control project. Notably, they are co-accused with former senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr., who is also charged with graft and malversation in a separate but related proceeding at the anti-graft court.
Legal Proceedings and Implications
The not guilty pleas mark the beginning of a formal legal battle at the Sandiganbayan, which specializes in handling cases involving public officials and corruption. This development highlights ongoing efforts to address graft and ensure accountability in government projects, particularly those funded by taxpayer money. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for anti-corruption measures in the Philippines, especially in the infrastructure sector.
As the proceedings continue, stakeholders and the public will be closely monitoring the court's decisions to see how justice is served in this high-profile matter involving significant public funds and alleged ghost projects.
