The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges against Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva and four former and incumbent government officials for their alleged involvement in the anomalous flood control projects.

ICI Chairman Andres Reyes Jr. said the commission submitted its recommendation to the Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, in a separate press conference, said his office received the ICI recommendation.

He added the Ombudsman is expected to file its first cases against those allegedly connected to the flood control scandal before the Sandiganbayan no later than Nov. 25.

"Today, October 29, 2025, we are already 44 days old. We will be submitting our interim report and recommendation to the office of the Ombudsman on the alleged involvement of several incumbent and former members of the House of Representatives and the Senate in obtaining bribes or unwarranted monetary benefits from flood control project contractors," Reyes said in a press conference.

He said the former and incumbent government officials include former Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, former Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, Commission of Audit (COA) Commissioner Mario Lipana, and former Rep. Mitch Cajayon-Uy.

"These persons have possibly committed the following violations, direct or indirect bribery and corruption of public officials under Articles 210, 211, and 212, of the Revised Penal Code, corruption of public officers under Section 3(b) and 3(e) of the Republic Act 3019, plunder as defined and penalized under Section 2 of the Republic Act, 7080," said Reyes.

"Based on the testimonies and narrations of the witnesses. The scheme starts from the (proponent) component who is either a member of the Senate or of the House of Representatives, who will inform Engineer (Henry) Alcantara that he or she has a budget allocated on infrastructure projects. Additionally, the scheme shall always involve flood control projects, because the kickback is 25 to 30% and is higher than the kickback from other projects, which is only at 10 percent," he added.

Reyes said "no one will be spared in this fight against corruption, politicians and government officials will be investigated and charged by credible evidence."

"Those found responsible will face the consequences and be held accountable under the rule of law, to aspiring criminals, crime will not and does not pay. We will continue to investigate, follow the evidence, and pursue charges to the very last man involved. Justice will not be delayed this time. This is our promise to our countrymen," he said. Robina Asido/DMS