DPWH discovers 421 ‘ghost’ flood control projects

National

OUT of 8,000 flood control project sites inspected nationwide, 421 are non-existent, a finding that has placed renewed scrutiny on how public infrastructure funds are used, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said in a press briefing at the Independent Commission for Infrastructure that the inspections were conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev).

“These are actual physical validations of project sites,” Dizon said in a Philstar report. He added that the AFP and PNP began the inspections even before a formal agreement with the DPWH, which is now being finalized.

The inspection drive aims to verify the existence and progress of infrastructure projects to ensure accountability in public spending.

Dizon said independent validators make the process more credible and less prone to internal bias.

Reports from the AFP, PNP and DEPDev were submitted last week, with Public Works Undersecretary Arthur Bisnar tasked to present consolidated findings to the commission.

Teams are currently focusing on provinces with large infrastructure budgets.

Dizon said the strategy allows continuous validation without large-scale mobilization and will expand to cover more sites nationwide.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee plans to invite former House Speaker Martin Romualdez and resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co to its next hearing on alleged flood control corruption.

Acting chair Senator Erwin Tulfo said both should be given the opportunity to explain allegations they received cash kickbacks.

Co’s resignation allows his invitation despite interparliamentary courtesy, while Romualdez’s appearance will be voluntary.(MyTVCebu)