Witness Testifies P299 Million in Cash Delivered in Grocery Boxes to Former DPWH Official
In a shocking revelation at the Sandiganbayan, a contractor employee has disclosed that approximately P299 million in cash, allegedly concealed within grocery boxes, was delivered to the office of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez. The testimony, given by Monica Ocampo-Santos, a liaison officer for SYMS Construction, has sent ripples through the legal and political spheres, highlighting potential corruption in government infrastructure deals.
Details of the Alleged Cash Delivery
Ocampo-Santos identified herself as a key witness in the case, stating that the substantial sum was intended for five government infrastructure projects secured by SYMS Construction. According to her account, the company utilized a license borrowed from Hernandez to win these contracts, raising questions about improper influence and backdoor dealings in public works. She further elaborated that the cash deliveries were meticulously scheduled, with text messages presented in court to corroborate the timing and logistics of these transactions.
Ghost Projects and Wedding Sponsorships
Adding to the gravity of the allegations, Ocampo-Santos revealed that P74 million of the total P299 million was linked to so-called ghost projects in Pandi, Bulacan, valued at P92.8 million. These projects, which allegedly never materialized despite funding, point to deeper issues of fraud and mismanagement within the DPWH. In a surprising twist, she also testified that several DPWH officials, including Hernandez and other district engineers, served as principal sponsors at her wedding—a request she claimed was made by her employer, suggesting possible coercion or favoritism in professional relationships.
Implications for Government Accountability
This testimony underscores ongoing concerns about corruption in Philippine infrastructure projects, particularly involving flood control initiatives that have been marred by scandals in the past. The Sandiganbayan hearing is part of a broader effort to hold public officials accountable, with this case potentially leading to further investigations into other alleged malpractices. As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders are calling for transparency and reforms to prevent such abuses in the future, emphasizing the need for stricter oversight in government contracting and project implementation.
