MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman dismisses reports that Henry Alcantara, Brice Hernandez, and Jaypee Mendoza, former engineers of the DPWH, intend to recant their statements regarding alleged corruption in flood control projects.
According to Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano, “Seems like noise to us,” when asked if they had received any information about the possible recantation of the three, especially the statements involving some legislators involved in the scandal.
Clavano added, “We will only rely on sworn statements. Besides, it will also affect their admission to the Witness Protection Program if they recant.”
The three former engineers are considered protected witnesses, according to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla in September 2025, when he was still head of the Department of Justice (DOJ). Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon also said in December that Alcantara was “provisionally admitted” to the Witness Protection Program.
According to Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson, former DPWH officials may be liable under the law regarding perjury if they recant. But for the senator, the case cannot be shaken based solely on their recantation.
