The Sandiganbayan's Third Division has taken a decisive step in a major corruption case, issuing arrest warrants for former senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. and six other individuals. The court action, dated Monday, January 19, 2026, is connected to a controversial "ghost" flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan.
Court Orders and Accused Individuals
Alongside Revilla, the court mandated the arrest of several former officials from the Bulacan District Engineering Office. The named individuals are Brice Hernandez, Arjay Domasig, Jaypee Mendoza, Emelita Juat, Juanito Mendoza, and Christina Pineda.
In a move to ensure their presence during the trial, the Sandiganbayan also issued Hold Departure Orders (HDOs) against all the accused. These orders, enforced by immigration authorities, legally prevent them from leaving the Philippines, securing their availability for court proceedings.
Charges and Case Background
The legal action follows the formal case filed by the Office of the Ombudsman just days earlier, on Friday, January 16, 2026. The charge is malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents.
This offense carries severe penalties, including potential imprisonment, substantial fines, mandatory restitution of misappropriated money, and perpetual disqualification from holding any public office.
The case stems from a recommendation made by the Independent Commission on Infrastructure (ICI) in December 2025. The ICI urged the Ombudsman to file charges against Revilla and others concerning alleged anomalies in flood control projects not only in Bulacan but also in Valenzuela and Marinduque.
Whistleblower Testimony and Broader Allegations
This development adds to a growing scandal that first gained public attention during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on September 25, 2025. During that hearing, retired Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo implicated several high-profile politicians.
Reading from his sworn affidavit, Bernardo admitted to his own role in wrongdoing, stating he allowed himself to be used for illegal activities. He publicly apologized to the nation and his family.
Furthermore, Bernardo made explosive claims, alleging he facilitated the delivery of millions of pesos in supposed kickbacks to Bong Revilla, Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero, and former senator Nancy Binay. He stated these were connected to infrastructure projects in Bulacan, Valenzuela, Marinduque, and other locations. The current warrants, however, specifically address the Pandi, Bulacan case.
