Photo courtesy of Alliance of Concerned Teachers.
Anti-corruption groups led by Kilusang Bayan Kontra Kurakot (KBKK) on Monday filed a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman seeking an investigation into former government officials allegedly involved in ₱100-billion budget insertion kickbacks linked to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The complaint names Adrian Carlos Bersamin, former head of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office, and Trygve Olaivar, former Education Undersecretary, accusing them of facilitating billions in kickbacks on behalf of Marcos.
Both resigned in late 2025 after being implicated in the scandal.
The filing cites sworn testimonies and affidavits, including revelations by ex-Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo and former Representative Elizaldo Co, who claimed Marcos ordered the budget insertions and received up to 25% in kickbacks.
Testimonies allege ₱8 billion was delivered to Marcos through Bersamin and Olaivar in multiple installments.
The groups asked the Ombudsman to probe possible violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019) and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials (RA 6713).
The move comes as the Marcos-created Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is set to close on March 31. Progressive group Bayan branded ICI a “failure” for not holding senior officials accountable, warning that corruption “can simply fade away without consequences” once public attention wanes. # (ZIA LUNA)
