DOJ names state witnesses in flood control corruption probe

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially named several high-ranking individuals and a private contractor as state witnesses or participants in the Witness Protection Program (WPP) in connection with ongoing investigations.

During a press briefing on Thursday, the DOJ identified the following participants:

• Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo (DPWH)

• Engineer Henry Alcantara

• Engineer Gerard Opulencia

• Contractor Sally Santos

These individuals are currently under the WPP, which grants them immunity from criminal liability for the cases they assist in, provided the evidence they provide is used to strengthen government investigations.

DOJ officials clarified that state witness status comes with strict conditions. Should the evidence provided prove unnecessary or be used against the participant due to a breach of agreement, they may be removed from the program.

“Pag kailangan namin ang iyong testimonya para mapalakas pa ang kaso ng estado, puwede kang ma-take in,” a DOJ lawyer explained. The lawyer emphasized that assistance must be both necessary and material to the success of the case.

Eligibility for the program does not require the witness to be the "most culpable" party. Instead, the primary factors are the value and necessity of their cooperation. Those admitted into the program enter into a formal Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) outlining their specific obligations and the scope of their protection.

Meanwhile, the DOJ stated that Brice Hernandez and JP Mendoza do not currently qualify as state witnesses. A spokesperson explained, “Wala kami nakikitang pangangailangan para sila ay i-discharge namin.”

However, officials added that if future proceedings require their testimony, they would be obligated to provide all relevant evidence to aid the investigation. The DOJ reiterated that the WPP is a tool designed to secure crucial testimony while ensuring the integrity of ongoing investigations under careful evaluation and strict conditions.