Manila: The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Tuesday opened its inquiry into alleged anomalies in multibillion-peso flood control projects, with senators citing reports of 'ghost projects,' substandard works, and the concentration of contracts among a few favored contractors. Committee chairperson Senator Rodante Marcoleta said the motu proprio investigation, dubbed 'Philippines Under Water,' was prompted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s recent disclosure that at least 15 contractors cornered a disproportionate share of flood control projects worth around PHP100 billion.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcoleta emphasized the need to reveal and analyze the truth behind these anomalies. He pointed out that the core issue is rampant corruption in government, likening it to a cancer destroying the country. Marcoleta stated that despite billions being spent annually, lives and properties continue to be lost due to ineffective flood control systems. The committee plans to investigate potential violations of procurement laws and other relevant regulations, assess project quality and effectiveness, and recommend legislative measures to enhance oversight.
During the hearing, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials admitted receiving reports of ghost projects in Bulacan, particularly in areas such as Calumpit, Hagonoy, and Malolos. These projects were linked to Wawao Builders, a contractor allegedly awarded PHP9 billion worth of projects nationwide, with PHP5.9 billion concentrated in Bulacan alone. DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan acknowledged the existence of ghost projects when questioned by Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, who demanded full transparency regarding project awards and payments.
Senator Erwin Tulfo criticized the flood control program, which has received PHP545.6 billion in funding, as a 'grand robbery' of the nation. He alleged that contractors are required to pay commissions to politicians and officials, resulting in substandard or non-existent projects. Tulfo further claimed that some DPWH officials own construction firms and benefit from in-house projects, accumulating vast wealth in the process.
Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito expressed concerns over a mismatch in the allocation of the PHP350 billion annual flood control budget, questioning whether an effective master plan exists. He highlighted the need for floodways and strategic infrastructure in flood-prone areas like Central Luzon, which are not reflected in current budget allocations.
Senator Imee Marcos pointed out that many contractors do not build flood control structures themselves but rent out licenses to smaller players. She criticized the underfunding of longstanding projects like the Para±aque Spillway and Laguna de Bay dredging, emphasizing the need for commitment to these initiatives.
Senator Bam Aquino, who had previously called for a probe into flood control spending, argued that eliminating ghost projects could redirect funds to address the nationwide classroom shortage. He questioned the allocation of funds to areas with minimal flooding while genuinely flood-prone provinces remain underfunded.
Marcoleta assured the public that the hearings would focus on uncovering the truth without political motives. The committee plans to summon contractors, scrutinize procurement and financial records, and investigate leads on alleged ghost projects and anomalies. Marcoleta emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that they must identify those who profited while thousands of Filipinos suffered due to inadequate flood control measures.
