Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Tuesday said the National Bureau of Investigation has recommended the filing of criminal complaints against former Bulacan 1st District engineer Henry Alcantara; Sen. Joel Villanueva, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, Rep. Zaldy Co, former Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy and former DPWH Usec. Robert Bernardo in relation to the flood control kickback scam.
He made the disclosure following the evaluation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) of the sworn affidavit submitted by Alcantara to the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Tuesday morning.
Remulla said the cases recommended to be filed against the lawmakers, Bernardo and Alcantara were for violation of Section 3, of RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), Article 211 of the Revised Penal Code (indirect bribery), and Article 217 of the RPC (malversation of public funds).
Remulla said they are still looking at the possible criminal liability of COA commissioner Mario Lipana and his wife, who is a contractor.
He said the DOJ has provided the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) a copy of the recommendation to file charges against these people.
“So given that, I believe that freeze orders have already been issued by the AMLC over the bank accounts of these persons,” Remulla said.
