The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 52 has issued a precautionary hold departure order against Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan in connection with a plunder and graft case linked to the alleged flood control scandal.
The order also covers respondents Roberto Bernardo, Henry Alcantara, and Gerard Opulencia.
The court said there is probable cause to believe the respondents may attempt to leave the country to evade prosecution.
Authorities were directed to prevent the five from departing the Philippines while the case is pending.
The case stems from alleged anomalies involving flood control projects now under judicial review.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 17, 2026
