The ex-DPWH engineers graft case moved forward as former officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways pleaded not guilty to charges linked to an alleged flood control scam now before the Sandiganbayan.

Former engineers of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have pleaded not guilty to graft charges linked to an alleged flood control scam, as proceedings before the Sandiganbayan move forward in one of the cases connected to a controversial public infrastructure project. The case centers on accusations that government funds were released for a flood control project that was either incomplete or did not exist, raising renewed concerns over accountability in public spending.

During their arraignment, former DPWH engineers assigned to the Bulacan district formally denied the charges filed against them, according to court records. The accusations stem from an alleged flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan, which authorities say involved the misuse of millions of pesos in public funds. Prosecutors allege that the project was reported as completed despite findings that it was either substandard or nonexistent.

Also facing charges is a former cashier of the same DPWH district office, who likewise entered a plea of not guilty. Court documents indicate that the charges were filed under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, which penalizes public officials who cause undue injury to the government or give unwarranted benefits through manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence.

One of the accused engineers was not arraigned on the same day after requesting more time to secure new legal counsel. The Sandiganbayan granted the request and rescheduled the arraignment to a later date. The court also set a pre-trial conference for the accused who have already entered their pleas, as the case proceeds to the next phase of litigation.

Prosecutors claim the alleged scheme involved the processing and approval of payments for a flood control project that failed to meet project specifications or was not implemented on the ground. Investigators reportedly relied on audit findings and field inspections that contradicted official reports submitted to justify the release of funds. The accused, however, have consistently denied wrongdoing, maintaining that they acted within the scope of their duties and in accordance with existing procedures.

Some of the individuals charged in connection with the case are currently under detention due to separate non-bailable offenses related to malversation, while others remain out on bail for the graft charges. Court officials clarified that the graft case is distinct from other charges arising from the same set of transactions, although they are closely related in terms of evidence and alleged acts.

The case is part of a broader set of investigations into alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects, which have drawn public attention amid recurring flooding and concerns over the effectiveness of government-funded mitigation efforts. Anti-corruption advocates have said such cases highlight the importance of strict oversight and transparency in the implementation of public works.

As the trial progresses, the Sandiganbayan is expected to hear pre-trial submissions and motions from both the prosecution and the defense. The court has emphasized that all accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and that the proceedings will follow due process. The outcome of the case could have broader implications for how flood control projects are monitored and implemented nationwide.