Manila: Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has submitted a counter-affidavit in response to a plunder complaint concerning alleged irregularities in flood control projects. The counter-affidavit was filed on Monday before prosecutors, as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bonoan confirmed the submission of the counter-affidavit during a brief interaction with reporters at the Department of Justice (DOJ). However, he did not provide further details on the contents of the affidavit. Under Philippine law, plunder involves a public official acquiring at least PHP75 million in ill-gotten wealth through a series of illegal activities.

DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez announced that the preliminary investigation into the case is set to resume on February 23. The ongoing legal process involves not only Bonoan but also several co-accused, including Senator Jinggoy Estrada, former DPWH undersecretaries Maria Catalina Cabral and Roberto Bernardo, former regional director Gerard Opulencia, and former district engineer Henry Alcantara.

Despite the legal challenges, Bonoan has confirmed plans to travel to the United States. This is despite an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) issued against him, which allows authorities to monitor his movements but does not restrict his travel. However, the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 52 has issued a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO) against Bonoan, Estrada, Alcantara, and Bernardo in connection to the flood control controversy.

Judge Juan Ra±ola, in his order dated February 10, stated there is "probable cause to believe that respondents will depart from the Philippines to evade arrest and prosecution of the crimes against them." Meanwhile, Alcantara, Opulencia, and Bernardo have been admitted to the government's Witness Protection Program, indicating their cooperation with the authorities in the investigation.