COA flags P330.5M flood control projects in Bulacan for irregularities

The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged four flood control projects in Bulacan worth over P330.5 million for irregularities, including ghost structures and unsupported completion claims.

The audit reports, which were filed with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Wednesday, December 16, highlighted strong indications of fraud in projects implemented by the DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office and awarded to Wawao Builders.

COA's Special Audit Team found strong indications that public funds were exposed to possible fraud through non-existent structures, relocated projects, and unsupported claims of 100% completion.

The projects include the construction of riverbank protection structures in Barangays Calero and Namayan in Malolos City, Barangay Malis in Guiguinto, and a flood mitigation structure in Barangay Bulusan, Calumpit.

State auditors recommended the filing of fraud audit reports with the ICI for potential referral to the Office of the Ombudsman for criminal, civil, and administrative action against officials and contractor representatives.