DPWH probes P750M ghost flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon is investigating three "ghost" flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro, amounting to P750 million, which were allocated in the 2024 national budget.

During an inspection with Governor Humerlito Dolor, Dizon found no evidence of ongoing construction for projects along Panggalaan River (left and right sides) and Mag-asawang Tubig River, despite their inclusion in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Dizon expressed his disbelief, stating, "I don't see any project here. This is just an illusion-I don't see any project."

A local barangay chairman confirmed that no structure was built in 2024 at the specified location for one of the projects.

The inspection also revealed that a partially constructed flood control project in Barangay Tagumpay had sheet piles significantly shorter than the project plan required.

Dizon flagged "patterns" of suspicious project implementation in the province, suggesting a potential sequence of railroaded procedures.

The DPWH-MIMAROPA regional office and its former director, Gerald Pacanan, have been implicated, with Dizon vowing to hold those responsible accountable.