Senator Escudero, Mayor Binay Deny Corruption Allegations in DPWH Probe

During a hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Thursday, Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero firmly rejected allegations of corruption made against him by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Roberto Bernardo. Escudero highlighted Bernardo's admission that they never discussed the alleged corrupt activities directly, branding the accusations as "false and damaging" to his character.

The senator expressed concern that the allegations appear to be part of a deliberate effort to undermine the Senate and its members, stating, "It seems like there is a well-orchestrated plan to attack the Senate and its members to destroy and discredit the institution and to divert the public’s attention from the real perpetrators… I will prove that he is lying about my alleged involvement."

Escudero also questioned why the testimony implicated only senators, noting, "If we are to base it on Usec. Bernardo’s testimony, they all have no fault or involvement here. That doesn’t seem believable." He committed to confronting the accusations legally by filing charges against Bernardo for what he described as baseless claims.

Similarly, former senator and current Makati Mayor Nancy Binay denied any involvement in corruption linked to flood control projects overseen by the DPWH. Bernardo’s claim that Binay received approximately P37 million from 2024 projects was branded by her as untrue.

Mayor Binay responded, "I am shocked and saddened that I am being implicated in the anomalies of the DPWH. The accusations against me are baseless." She defended her record of public service, emphasizing her integrity and stating, "It is easy to make false and damaging statements. But my performance in public service has always been above board and beyond a shadow of doubt." Binay added that she had been focusing on her duties as mayor and felt she was unfairly targeted to divert focus from the investigation.

The ongoing inquiry by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee continues to explore these allegations, with key figures vocally rejecting the charges as politically motivated and inaccurate.