Ex-DPWH Usec Bernardo to Testify in Zaldy Co's Graft Case

MANILA, Philippines — State witness and former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Roberto Bernardo is set to testify before the Sandiganbayan against former Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co and his co-accused in a graft case involving an alleged substandard road dike project in Oriental Mindoro. Assistant Special Prosecutor Peter Jedd Boco told the Sandiganbayan that Bernardo will testify against Co and other respondents who are accused of graft for allegedly violating their duties as public officers and causing damage to the Filipino people by using substandard materials and delaying the completion of the project. Bernardo, as one of the officials overseeing the project, is expected to shed light on the circumstances of the alleged irregularities. The case highlights concerns about the use of public funds and the quality of infrastructure projects, which are crucial for the Philippines' economic development. Allegations of corruption and substandard work in public projects have been a recurring issue in the country.