THE Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has referred former senator Bong Revilla Jr. and several others to the Office of the Ombudsman for alleged irregularities in government flood control projects.

ICI chair Justice Andres Reyes Jr. said the commission is recommending charges—including direct or indirect bribery, corruption of public officials, plunder, and administrative sanctions—against Revilla, businessman Maynard Ngu, and multiple individuals involved in the projects.

Others recommended to face charges include Carleen Villa, Gerard Opulencia, Manny Bulusan, Ruel Umali, Gene Ryan Altea, J.Y. Dela Rosa, Mrs. Patron, and Carlo Aguilar.

Revilla has denied receiving kickbacks, saying he was never given the chance to speak or defend himself during the inquiry. His camp argued he was “denied a fundamental right” and will respond once afforded due process before the Ombudsman.

The referral is based primarily on the testimonies of former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, who claimed Revilla allegedly received 25% commissions from flood control projects—an allegation the former senator firmly rejects.

ICI also urged the Ombudsman to conduct further investigation into the possible involvement of Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, former senators Nancy Binay and Grace Poe, and Senator/ former DPWH chief Mark Villar. According to Reyes, the commission needs more witnesses to substantiate these allegations.

ICI will provide additional evidence that may lead to more charges against other former DPWH officials and contractors.

Grace Poe said the recommendation for further investigation only proves that the allegations against her are baseless, adding she welcomes a thorough review. Villar likewise dismissed the claims as unfounded and expressed readiness to fully cooperate.

Revilla’s spokesperson noted that individuals linking the former senator to corruption were themselves part of a syndicate, saying they were the ones who benefited from “daang-bilyong piso.”