Former lawmakers’ trial testimony at the Sandiganbayan describes an alleged kickback scheme involving Zaldy Co and former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, linked to flood control and infrastructure projects. Coverage centers on testimony from state witness Henry Alcantara and other prosecution witnesses who describe a “commitment fees” arrangement and the alleged timing and logistics of payments.
Across outlets, Alcantara says the alleged kickback rate began at 20% in 2022 and rose to 25% during the period when Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez was House Speaker. One outlet reports that Alcantara ties the expansion to Romualdez’s speakership, while another emphasizes that the collection started before Romualdez took the post, even as it later increased. Inquirer’s coverage adds further detail, including testimony about how kickbacks were carried—describing “maleta” (suitcases) and quantities allegedly seen in Co’s office and condo.
Some stories also focus on personal details from testimony, including a claim that Alcantara received a 2% cut as “lambing,” and that witnesses saw suitcases containing cash. The differing angles largely reflect whether outlets lead with the alleged rate change, the timing before Romualdez’s tenure, or the “maleta” logistics presented in court.
