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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 3 ex-undersecretaries under probe for 'money laundering' – Ombudsman Remulla

3 ex-undersecretaries under probe for 'money laundering' – Ombudsman Remulla

Published Nov 19, 2025 05:10 pm
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said that three former undersecretaries are being investigated by his office for alleged money laundering.
During a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Nov 19, Remulla identified them as former undersecretary Adrian Bersamin of the Office of the Executive Secretary, former Department of Education undersecretary Trygve Olaivar and former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Roberto Bernardo.
"They were working together in laundering money, it's a major offense being committed," Remulla said.
Citing the narration of Bernardo during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, Remulla said that the money intended for DPWH projects is inside an armored van, which would be met by another armored van. Then, they would transfer the money and drive off with the second armored van, he said.
"They don't have a right to that money. What are they doing with the money? Ano kinalaman nila sa pera na yun bakit hawak nila? (What claim do they have with that money, why are they holding it)?" he asked.
"Nakakapangilabot ang ganitong mga kwento (These stories are terrifying)," Remulla added. "I think it's believable, but we will look at the evidence. There must be veracity in it," he also said.
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