The Ombudsman is set to file malversation or plunder charges against former senator Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. over irregularities in flood control projects, potentially leading to an arrest before Christmas. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla stated that there is sufficient evidence, calling the case a 'low-hanging fruit'.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that his office is close to concluding its preliminary investigation into former senator Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr.'s alleged role in flood control project anomalies. In an ANC interview, Remulla indicated that malversation would serve as the predicate crime, with plunder also possible. He did not specify the exact filing date in court against the former senator.
"I think malversation would be the predicate crime, possibly plunder. It (investigation) is something that is ongoing right now," Remulla said. When asked about a 'big fish' arrest before Christmas, he confirmed one is imminent, possibly next week for a senator.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) recently confirmed Revilla and fugitive ex-congressman Zaldy Co as respondents in at least two flood control cases involving SYMS Construction and Trading. They are also named in National Bureau of Investigation complaints regarding ghost projects by Wawao Builders and Topnotch Catalyst Builders, which are under initial DOJ evaluation.
Former public works undersecretary Roberto Bernardo testified before the Senate Blue Ribbon committee that Revilla received about 25 percent in commissions from these projects. Revilla's lawyers have denied the allegation.
Meanwhile, a fact-finding probe continues on Sen. Francis 'Chiz' Escudero's involvement. The Ombudsman will investigate a Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism report linking Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to the scam, citing P15.8 billion and P14.4 billion allocations to them from 2023 to 2025.