ICI probes DPWH execs over flood control anomalies

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) is investigating Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials for alleged document tampering related to anomalous flood control projects.

A former DPWH engineer's lawyer surrendered a desktop computer containing files that could support claims against senators and congressmen allegedly involved in the controversy.

The computer's owner, Brice Hernandez, allegedly transacted with Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Joel Villanueva, with evidence potentially concerning alleged budget insertions of P355 million in 2025 and P600 million in 2023.

Sunwest Inc. and Hi-Tone Construction and Development Corp., contractors linked to Rep. Zaldy Co, were among 15 contractors that cornered 20 percent of the P545-billion budget for flood control projects nationwide since the start of the Marcos administration.

Sunwest reportedly obtained over P10 billion, while Hi-Tone secured over P4.8 billion.

Speaker Faustino Dy III is observing due process and awaits Rep. Zaldy Co's return from the US to address corruption allegations.

A special House committee formed by Speaker Faustino Dy III is realigning P255.5 billion removed from the proposed 2026 DPWH budget, with the bulk of the P116.3 billion realigned so far going to the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

The AICS program received P32 billion, while the Department of Health received P29.2 billion and the Department of Education received P26.5 billion.