The Office of the Ombudsman has asked the Sandiganbayan on Saturday to issue a precautionary hold departure order against Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero and businessman Maynard Ngu.
Escudero and Ngu are being investigated for alleged plunder, graft, and indirect bribery related to the flood control scandal.
JUST IN: Office of the Ombudsman seeks a precautionary Hold Departure Order on Senator Francis Escudero and Maynard Ngu who are facing investigation for alleged plunder, graft, and indirect bribery over flood control issues
The request was assigned to the Sandiganbayan’s Sixth Division on Saturday afternoon.
Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo has said he received 20% or P160 million of about P800 million of inserted projects for Valenzuela in the General Appropriations Act. The P160 million, Bernardo said, was “meant for Senator Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero.”
Bernardo described Ngu as his “close friend,” and that he personally delivered cash to the latter’s office in Manila.
In his affidavit, Bernardo said Ngu is also a campaign contributor to Escudero.
Ngu however, denied that he was involved in flood control kickbacks.
“I absolutely denied all the allegations made by Usec. Bernardo. That’s the reason why I already filed the case against Usec. on defamatory insinuations. For this, I invoke the sub judice rule because it’s pending already with appropriate courts,” Ngu said during a hearing of the Senate blue ribbon committee last January.
Escudero also denied that he was involved in anomalous flood control projects, as alleged by Bernardo.
In a statement, Escudero said that he would sue Bernardo for what he described as “malicious allegations and innuendos” made against him.
“By his own admission, he never had any contact with me directly regarding this matter—and I will prove that he is lying about my alleged involvement,” the former Senate president said.
Sandiganbayan
The Sandiganbayan is a special appellate court in the Philippines established in 1978 to try criminal and civil cases involving graft, corruption, and other offenses committed by public officials, particularly those with a salary grade of 27 or higher. Its creation was part of the government’s efforts to combat corruption and uphold accountability within the bureaucracy. The court has played a significant role in high-profile cases, including those against former presidents and other high-ranking officials.
Manila
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history shaped by Spanish colonization, which began in 1571 and left landmarks like the walled city of Intramuros. It later endured American occupation, World War II devastation, and post-war reconstruction, emerging as a vibrant cultural and economic hub. Today, Manila blends historic sites, modern skyscrapers, and diverse traditions, reflecting its complex past and resilient spirit.
Sandiganbayan
The Sandiganbayan is a special appellate court in the Philippines established in 1978 under Presidential Decree No. 1606. Its primary jurisdiction is to try and adjudicate criminal and civil cases involving graft and corrupt practices committed by public officials, particularly those in the executive branch. The court was created as part of the government’s effort to combat corruption and ensure
Sandiganbayan
The Sandiganbayan is a special appellate court in the Philippines established in 1973 under Presidential Decree No. 1486, tasked with adjudicating criminal and civil cases involving graft, corruption, and other offenses committed by public officers. Its creation was part of the government’s efforts to combat official misconduct and hold high-ranking officials accountable, particularly during the martial law era. The court’s name derives from the Filipino words “sandigan” (foundation) and “bayan” (nation), symbolizing its role as a pillar of justice against corruption.
Manila
Manila is the capital and largest city of the Philippines, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century when it was established as a Spanish colonial settlement. The city served as a key hub for the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade, and its historic walled area, Intramuros, bears witness to centuries of Spanish, American, and Japanese influence. Today, Manila is a vibrant metropolis known for its cultural landmarks, bustling districts, and resilient spirit.
Valenzuela
Valenzuela is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines, located north of Manila in Metro Manila. Originally a part of Bulacan province, it was established as a town in 1623 and later became a city in 1998. Historically, it played a role in the Philippine Revolution and is known for its rapid industrial growth and being the birthplace of the country’s first president, Emilio Aguinaldo.
General Appropriations Act
The General Appropriations Act is a key piece of legislation in the Philippines that authorizes the government’s annual budget, outlining expenditures for various departments and programs. Its history dates back to the American colonial period, with the first such act passed in 1916, evolving over time to become the primary tool for fiscal management and public spending. Today, it is a crucial document debated and approved by Congress to fund national priorities and services.
Senate blue ribbon committee
The term “Senate blue ribbon committee” refers to a special investigative committee created by the U.S. Senate to examine complex or controversial issues, often with bipartisan membership. Historically, such committees have been formed to probe major scandals or policy failures, such as the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities (the Watergate Committee) in the 1970s. These panels are distinguished by their temporary nature and broad authority to conduct hearings and issue reports.
