The Office of the Ombudsman has confirmed that it accepted former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan’s request to become a state witness, saying his testimony is considered significant in the case involving former House Speaker Martin Romualdez over the alleged flood control scam.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said the decision was made to strengthen the case against Romualdez, whom the Ombudsman said is linked to allegations of conspiracy and corruption surrounding flood control projects.
According to Clavano, Bonoan may be able to provide important information because of his direct interactions with lawmakers and government officials involved in the projects under investigation.
The Ombudsman said Bonoan’s testimony could help establish facts relevant to the ongoing case.
Despite accepting Bonoan’s request, the Ombudsman clarified that the matter remains under the jurisdiction of the Sandiganbayan.
The anti-graft court will determine whether to grant the motion to discharge Bonoan as an accused in exchange for his testimony as a state witness.
Clavano said the final decision rests with the court.
The Ombudsman emphasized that Bonoan’s proposed testimony is viewed as an important part of the prosecution’s effort to pursue the case.
The agency maintained that the legal process will continue in accordance with existing procedures, with the Sandiganbayan evaluating whether the requirements for discharging an accused as a state witness have been satisfied.
If approved by the court, Bonoan will testify in the proceedings involving the alleged flood control scam.
The Ombudsman said the request has already been accepted by the agency, but the court will have the final authority to decide whether Bonoan will officially be allowed to serve as a state witness in the case against Romualdez.
