Senator Backs Syms Construction Owner as Key Witness in Flood Control Corruption Probe

Senator JV Ejercito has publicly endorsed Sally Santos, owner of Syms Construction, as a reliable witness in the ongoing investigation of corruption linked to flood control projects. During an ambush interview following the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on September 18, Ejercito urged the panel to recommend Santos for inclusion in the Department of Justice's witness protection program.

"Eh mukhang sya naman yung nagsasabi ng totoo eh," Ejercito remarked, emphasizing his belief in Santos's truthfulness.

Ejercito noted a marked change in Santos's demeanor during the latest hearing compared to earlier sessions. Santos had previously expressed concerns over her safety after confessing to involvement in kickback schemes and a "license for rent" modus operandi allegedly occurring within the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan first district engineering office.

The construction firm owner admitted to funneling millions in kickbacks to former DPWH district engineer Brice Hernandez, who claimed such payments were made under directives from his superior, Henry Alcantara. Santos detailed how contractors were compelled to lend their licenses to others to secure contracts, reflecting the considerable influence wielded by the Bulacan first district engineering office.

Ejercito elaborated, "Noon confident siya. Ngayon, talagang iba. May takot siya, at mukhang siya yung consistent yung mga sagot, na talagang pwersadong ipahiram lisensya niya."

Santos's testimony implicated Hernandez, Alcantara, former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, and Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co in purported kickback schemes tied to flood control projects. She further accused Hernandez and other DPWH engineers of lying and shifting blame onto her, alleging that they were responsible for neglecting the projects, which allegedly resulted in ghost or substandard works.

Although Hernandez denied Santos's accusations, he admitted to receiving 20 percent kickbacks while stating that Alcantara took the largest portion at 40 percent. Santos also confessed to collecting a three percent "royalty fee" from these projects.

Ejercito's support underscores the significance of Santos's testimony in shedding light on corruption within flood control initiatives and the potential for holding responsible parties accountable.