DOJ Progresses in Flood Control Corruption Investigation
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is pushing ahead with its investigation into alleged corruption in government flood control projects, according to Officer-in-Charge Fredderick Vida. As prosecutors continue to verify testimonies from individuals seeking protection under the Witness Protection Program (WPP), the DOJ is taking a careful, methodical approach to gathering both statements and documentary evidence.
Methodical Evaluation Before Charging
Vida emphasized that criminal charges will only be filed when prosecutors are confident that the evidence can withstand judicial scrutiny. “The DOJ is currently evaluating the statements of individuals who have expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigation and apply for witness protection. We are taking all necessary steps to verify their claims and determine their credibility before making any legal moves,” he stated.
The probe centers on irregularities in flood control projects undertaken by district engineering offices and involved contractors. Allegations range from fund misuse to overpricing schemes, with testimonies forming a core component of the fact-finding process.
Collaboration Across Agencies
Vida noted the DOJ’s collaborative stance, working closely with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to corroborate statements through physical and documentary evidence. He declined to name individuals or entities under investigation, citing the confidentiality inherent in ongoing inquiries. However, he reassured the public that decisive action would follow once the fact-finding phase concludes and verified evidence supports substantive cases.
Context: From Senate Revelations to DOJ Action
The DOJ investigation follows Senate hearings that brought to light alleged “license-for-rent” and fund diversion schemes involving government engineers, local officials, and private contractors. In response, the DOJ coordinated with the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit (COA) to identify overlapping cases and determine jurisdiction over transactions.
Protecting Witnesses and Ensuring Due Process
While the public’s right to information is acknowledged, Vida warned against livestreaming witness interviews. “There have been requests asking if witness interviews can be live-streamed. That’s difficult to allow because not everything a witness says is necessarily true, and we have to study and verify every statement carefully before making it public,” he said. Premature disclosure could jeopardize lives and enable those implicated to adjust their defenses.
Protecting witnesses is described as a core principle of justice, not a mere procedural safeguard. Vida underscored that exposing identities or statements early risks losing critical testimony and endangering lives. “Protecting our witnesses ensures that the truth can stand on its own once we reach the courts,” he added.
Public Accountability and Responsible Reporting
The DOJ recognizes the public’s interest in accountability; nonetheless, accurate, verified findings must drive prosecutions. Vida stressed that when cases are filed, they will be backed by credible witness accounts and solid evidence. The department intends to present the truth through the courts, not through sensationalized disclosures.
A Call for Cooperation and Responsible Coverage
As the flood control probe and other accountability cases unfold, the DOJ seeks cooperation from all sectors—public, media, and civil society—to protect witnesses and preserve the integrity of investigations. Vida warned that those who corrupted the system are watching, and premature exposure could undermine efforts to secure justice.
In closing, the DOJ remains committed to pursuing justice grounded in facts and law while ensuring robust protection for whistleblowers and witnesses. The department remains cautious, deliberate, and ready to act decisively once the evidence meets judicial standards.
