A storm of accusations erupted, centering on alleged corruption within infrastructure projects. Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara vehemently denied any connection to questionable dealings at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), defending his 21-year record of public service.
The allegations surfaced during a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing, where former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo testified that Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar allegedly received a 12% cut from infrastructure projects. This, Bernardo claimed, occurred during Angara’s tenure as chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
Bernardo detailed his initial encounter with Olaivar in 2010, while both were working for then-Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. Their professional relationship continued, extending through service under the late Senator Edgardo Angara and his son, the current Education Secretary.
According to Bernardo’s testimony, transactions between himself and Olaivar took place between 2019 and 2024. He asserted that Olaivar received payments equivalent to 12% of projects overseen by Senator Angara during his time leading the finance committee.
This isn’t the first time Olaivar’s name has been linked to alleged impropriety. In September, Bernardo previously alleged that Olaivar demanded a 15% cut from a substantial P2.85 billion in infrastructure projects, purportedly for Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
Angara’s firm denial casts a shadow over the claims, setting the stage for a potentially contentious investigation. The accusations threaten to unravel trust in key government figures and raise serious questions about the integrity of public works projects.
