JANUARY 16, 2026 — Former DPWH chief Manuel Bonoan’s absence is stretching longer than expected, and Filipinos are left wondering: Is this really about his wife’s medical procedure, or is it a convenient escape from accountability?

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida revealed that Bonoan’s lawyer sent an email before Christmas, explaining that Bonoan could not return as promised because of complications from his wife’s operation. 

Vida acknowledged the explanation but pressed for specifics: “I took note na sinabi mo 'yan. Pero first, bigyan mo ako ng impormasyon - kailan siya babalik.” 

(I took note of what you said. But first, give me information on when he will return.)

Now comes a fresh update: Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Manuel Romualdez confirmed that Bonoan is still in California and has promised to return on February 15. 

“We know where he is. He’s not hiding. He’s in California now and he asked for permission if he can stay for another month because his wife has eye problems,” Romualdez told Super Radyo dzBB. 

He added, “He’ll be back there on the 15th.”

Romualdez said Bonoan’s extended stay was approved by the DOJ, noting that he spoke directly with the former secretary by phone. Bonoan reportedly assured him he is not hiding and will face the allegations once back in Manila.

But here’s the rub: Bonoan was summoned by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to testify on January 19, with threats of a warrant of arrest if he fails to appear. Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson accused him of deliberately submitting incorrect grid coordinates for thousands of flood control projects, allegedly to mislead President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Meanwhile, several engineers, DPWH officials, and contractors have already been indicted and detained over the anomalies, while powerful politicians implicated remain untouched. The Filipino people are openly frustrated at this imbalance.

Bonoan left the country on November 11, transiting through Taiwan before heading to the US. His trip was supposed to end by December 17. Yet, weeks later, he remains abroad. And let’s not forget — he left while authorities were investigating alleged irregularities in flood control projects during his tenure.

Filipinos have seen this playbook before — officials leaving “temporarily” only to stretch their stay indefinitely.

The timing couldn’t be more suspicious. While floodwaters continue to plague communities, the man once responsible for overseeing projects meant to prevent them is comfortably abroad. Shouldn’t accountability be just as urgent as compassion? Or are we expected to accept vague explanations while investigations stall?

This isn’t just about Bonoan — it’s about the system that allows powerful figures to slip away when scrutiny tightens. Every day he stays abroad, public trust erodes further. 

So tell me — Do you believe Bonoan is truly just a husband standing by his wife, or is this the start of his great escape?

(Image: Philippine News Agency)