DPWH admits 'ghost' flood control projects involving Wawao Builders

During a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Tuesday, August 19, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) admitted to potential 'ghost' flood control projects involving Wawao Builders in Bulacan province.

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada reported receiving information about ghost projects worth PHP5.97 billion in Calumpit, Malolos, and Hagonoy, with Wawao Builders allegedly involved; only seven out of the top 15 flood control contractors attended the hearing, citing medical reasons.

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan confirmed the involvement of Wawao Builders in over PHP9 billion worth of projects nationwide, including PHP5.97 billion in Bulacan, some of which appeared non-existent; local officials and residents were unaware of a P77-million flood control structure, raising concerns about transparency.

DPWH has relieved the entire district office in Bulacan and initiated a fraud audit, with senators pushing for subpoenas to compel company owners to attend further hearings.

Legislators are expected to invite Wawao Builders for further investigation as they are ranked 12th among Top 15 contractors of flood control projects under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration, with P9 billion worth of projects nationwide from 2022 to 2025.