MANILA—The Sandiganbayan Third Division has ordered state witness and former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo to appear and testify in the bail hearing of former Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. and five co-accused in connection with a malversation case involving an alleged P92.8-million ghost flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan, tentatively set on Friday, April 24.

The directive came after the anti-graft court’s resident doctor, Dr. Warlin Basuel, told the court that Bernardo is currently unwell and may not be fit to attend proceedings scheduled on Wednesday, April 23.

“He is very cooperative, [and] he is willing to be examined. I checked on his throat. It’s really congested,” Basuel said.

Sandiganbayan Third Division Associate Justice Ronald Moreno said Bernardo’s testimony remains necessary and may proceed as early as the following day, subject to the court’s assessment.

“We require his presence [before the] court by tomorrow…what I do suggest is his testimony is set by tomorrow, tentatively, subject to the evaluation of the court. We’ll make a final recommendation by 5 p.m. today,” Moreno said.

Meanwhile, Third Division chair Associate Justice Karl Miranda reminded prosecutors that Bernardo should wear a face mask when he appears before the court.

The court earlier directed Basuel to verify Bernardo’s condition after he sought to be excused from scheduled testimony, citing bronchitis and other related illnesses.

Deputy Special Prosecutor Omar Sagadal questioned the order, saying it appeared to place undue pressure on the witness.

“We find this unfair to the witness and prosecution, Your Honor,” Sagadal said.

Miranda, however, defended the court’s move, saying it was necessary to protect the integrity of the proceedings and prevent any attempt to delay justice.

“His testimony was scheduled long ago. And then the [prosecution] counsel receives a text that he cannot testify. Hindi puede iyon,” Miranda said.

“Baka isipin ng tao nag-usap na ang witness at akusado…para mahina ang ebidensiya at ma grant ang bail. The court is really serious in preserving its integrity and reputation,” he added.

Prosecutor Cristina Marallag-Batacan earlier informed the court that Bernardo is confined at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center for chronic rhinosinusitis, follicular pharyngitis, and acute bronchitis, with his attending physician recommending bed rest.

During the Senate blue ribbon inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood control projects, Bernardo claimed Revilla handed him a list of government projects in 2024 and allegedly requested a commitment fee.

Bernardo also said he approved a 25% commitment fee amounting to P125 million, which he claimed was delivered to him and later handed over to Revilla at the former senator’s residence in Cavite.