The eight officials of DPWH Region 4-B have pleaded “not guilty” in the case related to the P289.5-million allegedly botched flood control project in Oriental Mindoro. The project is linked to a company allegedly connected to former congressman Zaldy Co.
In their appearance before the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division, the officials insisted that they did not violate any law and did not give undue favors to the private company. They are facing violation of RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).
Among those who pleaded "not guilty" are Gerald Pacanan, Gene Ryan Altea, Ruben Santos Jr., Dominic Serrano, Dennis Abangon, Montrexis Tamayo, Felisardo Casuno, and Lerma Cayco. The arraignment of Juliet Calvo was reset to December 2 due to issues with her release from Camp Karingal.
Calvo's camp insisted that he surrendered voluntarily and was not arrested in connection with the malversation through falsification case, which he was not initially included in but was included after the Ombudsman amended the charge sheet.
The court also issued alias arrest warrants against Zaldy Co and six other defendants who have not yet been located. A pretrial was scheduled for January and February 2026 to begin marking evidence.
Meanwhile, former DPWH secretary Manuel Bonoan denied receiving any kickbacks, after his name was mentioned in the affidavit of former undersecretary Roberto Bernardo. Bonoan said he did not ask for or receive any favors or money related to the projects.
