The Philippine Senate Blue Ribbon Committee recently launched an investigation into officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) suspected of using fake IDs to enter a casino. This investigation is set against the backdrop of controversies surrounding flood control projects and focuses on the code of conduct of the involved personnel. The case is still under further review.
Background and Cause of the Investigation
The Philippine Senate Blue Ribbon Committee initiated an investigation into disputes related to flood control projects, during which it was discovered that DPWH officials were suspected of using fake IDs to enter a casino. The focus of the investigation is on an incident involving Brice Hernandez, a former assistant engineer for Bulacan's first district, who allegedly used a fake ID under the name "Marvin de Guzman" to enter a casino in 2022.
Key Witness Testimony
Archibald Torregosa, a person involved in the case, stated at the hearing on September 25 that he only accompanied the DPWH officials to the casino's membership counter to assist with the application for membership cards and did not participate in any forgery of identity documents. He emphasized, "I did not create or request the creation of their IDs; I merely accompanied them for membership procedures."
Senate Warnings and Legal Risks
Senator Ronald dela Rosa pointed out at the hearing that if Torregosa indeed assisted in creating fake identity documents, he could potentially be complicit in criminal activities rather than merely an accessory. Torregosa denied this, noting that casino staff were responsible for issuing membership cards and suggested verifying identities through the casino's real-time photo system for members.
Statements and Details from Involved Personnel
Hernandez previously admitted to entering the casino and participating in gambling activities but claimed to be unaware of the fake ID situation. He mentioned that the registration process was handled by someone named "Mike Archibal," whom he believed to be Torregosa. Torregosa, however, stated that he first met Hernandez and other DPWH personnel at the casino, where they introduced themselves as contractors or participants in cockfighting events.
Casino Membership Benefits Introduction
In his testimony, Torregosa mentioned that he introduced DPWH officials to casino membership benefits, including complimentary dining and hotel services, and encouraged them to register as members to enjoy these perks. These introductions occurred during normal casino operations.
Investigation Progress and Follow-up
The Senate investigation is still ongoing, with a focus on the casino fake ID incident and the potential responsibilities of the involved officials. The committee will continue to gather evidence and testimonies to ascertain the truth of the incident and assess the scope of responsibility of the involved personnel.
