DOJ probes Villar family over P18.5 billion infrastructure contracts

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting a preliminary investigation into Senator Mark Villar, Senator Camille Villar, and former Senator Cynthia Villar regarding P18.5 billion in government infrastructure contracts.

The probe centers on allegations that a contractor, identified as a first cousin of Senator Mark Villar, was awarded these contracts while Villar was Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which Remulla cited as a "prohibited interest".

Senator Mark Villar denied any direct or indirect ownership or controlling interest in companies participating in DPWH projects and stated that no relatives acquired contracts during his tenure as DPWH Secretary.

Villar also highlighted reforms he instituted in the DPWH to curb corruption, such as geotagging projects, digitizing data, and using drone technology for on-site inspections.

The Villar camp has reached out to the DOJ to set a meeting regarding the investigation, though Remulla prefers the process to be conducted officially and transparently.

Senator Mark Villar welcomed the investigation, stating he has "nothing to hide and believe[s] firmly in accountability and due process."