Makabayan bloc seeks probe into P4.44B Davao flood control projects

The Makabayan bloc, represented by House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio, is seeking a congressional inquiry into P4.44 billion worth of flood control projects in Davao City's first district implemented between 2019 and 2022.

Tinio alleges that these projects are marred by irregularities including total overlap, double funding, ghost projects, incomplete delivery, location changes, improper specifications, and contracts without line item appropriations.

He stated that the pattern of corruption in Davao is similar to that uncovered in Bulacan, Oriental Mindoro, and other parts of the country.

Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte has dismissed the allegations, stating that the projects were implemented, inspected, and validated by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Commission on Audit (COA), and that the structures are functional.

The resolution noted that 49 of the 80 flagged contracts were congressional insertions, and that the top contractor, Genesis88 Construction Inc., is owned by Glenn Escandor, who served as presidential adviser for sports during the administration of Rodrigo Duterte.