Watchdog names 18 in P289.5M flood control project probe

An independent watchdog, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), has identified 18 individuals, including a party-list representative and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials, who may be responsible for irregularities in a P289.5 million flood-control project in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

The ICI's preliminary report to the Ombudsman alleges that the project, handled by DPWH Region IV-B and contractor Sunwest, Inc., used substandard steel sheet piles, potentially causing losses exceeding P63 million.

Further irregularities cited include incomplete project documentation and the reuse of photographs in billing submissions.

Party-list Rep. Elizaldy S. Co, formerly the chairman of the House committee on appropriations, was among those named, despite his claims of having divested from Sunwest, Inc., a company previously linked to him.

The ICI has recommended potential charges for graft, procurement violations, and falsification against the identified individuals.