P60-billion Cebu flood projects face Ombudsman probe

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman is preparing to investigate possible anomalies in some P60 billion in flood control projects implemented in Cebu over the past six years.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla visited Cebu on Monday, August 10, to inspect flood control projects and assess whether their design, construction or implementation contributed to persistent flooding in the province.

Remulla said about 25% of the P60-billion allocation went to Cebu's 7th District, while another 25% of the total was awarded to a single contractor.

"That should be a lot of money to control the flooding, but apparently the past month flooding happened again here in Cebu," Remulla said at a press conference.

"We have to look at what's happening. Is it the design? Is it the execution? Or is it just corruption?" he added.

Remulla said the Ombudsman also plans to examine the implementation and effectiveness of public works projects in flood-prone areas across the Visayas.

He did not identify individuals suspected of wrongdoing but said the Department of Public Works and Highways Central Visayas regional office would come under scrutiny.

The Ombudsman is also looking at possible lifestyle checks involving several district engineers, Remulla said.

Cebu's 7th District covers Alcantara, Alegria, Badian, Dumanjug, Ginatilan, Malabuyoc, Moalboal and Ronda.