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Philippine Ex-Official Alleges Billions in Flood Control Kickbacks
Flood Control Bribery Scandal Unfolds
Former Congressman Michael Defensor has publicly accused former Undersecretaries Adrian Bersamin and Trygive Olaivar of pocketing P1.2 billion in kickbacks from flood control projects. This accusation comes after former Senator Panfilo Lacson reportedly stated that presidential aides were involved in corruption without the president's knowledge. Defensor detailed that the alleged illicit funds were delivered and accumulated at the Diamond Hotel, implicating Bersamin and Olaivar as key figures in the scheme. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive investigation into these allegations.
Executive Officials Implicated, Government's Stance Questioned
Defensor highlighted that the money was reportedly delivered by Bersamin and Olaivar, contradicting the narrative that such funds would not be released without approval from Malacañang and Congress. He pointed out that while legislators are often targeted in investigations, executive officials tied to Malacañang, including the Executive Secretary and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), have not been thoroughly examined. Defensor challenged the government to prove the president's lack of knowledge by making these individuals, including the named undersecretaries and Secretary Pangandaman, fully accountable.
Allegations of Political Interference and Whistleblower Intimidation
Defensor revealed that a group of 18 ex-marines, including active personnel, are ready to testify about the alleged corruption. These individuals, initially employees under Congressman Salceda, claim they were privy to the fund deliveries. Defensor expressed concern over the timing of their emergence and reports of attempts to silence them, citing threats to their families. He highlighted a previous incident where similar threats led to a retraction of an affidavit from a whistleblower involved in a case concerning former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Defensor urged a transparent investigation into these claims, emphasizing that any attempts to suppress the truth undermine justice and public trust.
*Source: YouTube: ABS-CBN News (2026-03-21)*
