The Office of the Ombudsman on Tuesday accepts the offer of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) chief Manuel Bonoan to become a state witness, after reviewing his potential testimony in cases involving flood-control projects. Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano said the decision is “tough,” but is made to strengthen the prosecution of former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Rep. Martin Romualdez. The Ombudsman also said Bonoan’s testimony is expected to help build a stronger case related to allegations of conspiracy and plunder tied to flood-control transactions. Multiple reports describe the plan as aimed at clarifying and “pinning down” the accused, with the Ombudsman maintaining that Bonoan’s evidence could be material to the charges. The reports also note that the Ombudsman frames the decision as part of an effort to support future case filing and prosecution, rather than a final determination of guilt. The Ombudsman’s move follows discussions around Remulla’s statement that Bonoan would be used as a state witness.