MANILA, March 28, 2026 — The Philippine government has recovered around ₱611 million through the restitution process in connection with the flood control project controversy, Acting Justice Secretary Frederick Vida confirmed, marking a significant step in holding accountable those involved in the fiasco.

Acting Justice Secretary Frederick A. Vida announced that approximately ₱611 million has been returned to public coffers as part of the restitution process involving state witnesses in the flood control scandal. The funds were surrendered by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials and a contractor implicated in the controversy.

Vida said the recovered amount came from batches of cash turned over by former DPWH officials Roberto Bernardo, Henry Alcantara, and Gerard Opulencia, along with contractor Sally Santos. The restitution process was carried out under the Department of Justice’s supervision, with the funds directly remitted to the national treasury.

One of the most notable restitutions was made by dismissed DPWH engineer Henry Alcantara, who previously surrendered ₱110 million in cash and later returned another ₱71 million, bringing his total restitution to ₱181 million. Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon earlier confirmed that Alcantara had committed to return ₱300 million, with a balance still pending.

The flood control fiasco, which involved irregularities in government infrastructure projects, has been under investigation for years. The restitution process is part of broader efforts to recover ill-gotten funds and strengthen accountability in public works spending. Vida emphasized that the recovered money demonstrates the government’s commitment to pursuing justice and restoring public trust.

“This restitution is a clear sign that we are serious in holding those responsible accountable and in recovering what rightfully belongs to the people,” Vida said during the turnover ceremony.

The Department of Justice has also reiterated its support for the Witness Protection Program, which has encouraged implicated individuals to cooperate with authorities in exchange for legal safeguards. Officials believe this mechanism has been instrumental in recovering large sums of money tied to corruption cases.

The ₱611 million recovery is expected to bolster government resources for ongoing infrastructure projects and flood control measures, which remain critical in mitigating the impact of typhoons and heavy rains across the country.

The DOJ stressed that while the restitution marks progress, investigations and legal proceedings against those involved in the flood control scandal continue. The agency vowed to pursue remaining balances and ensure that accountability is enforced at all levels.

This development highlights the government’s intensified anti-corruption drive under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has repeatedly called for transparency and efficiency in public spending. The recovered funds are seen as both a financial and symbolic victory in the fight against graft.