President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. disclosed on Monday that an initial review found that PhP100 billion worth of 20 percent of all flood control projects in the past three years were undertaken by 15 contractors.
Citing the preliminary report of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), President Marcos said PhP545 billion in public funds went to flood control projects nationwide since July 2022.
“I don’t know about you, but that is a very big number. By any measure, that is an enormous number,” the President said in a press conference in Malacañang.
The DPWH identified a total of 2,409 contractors for both local and national flood control projects.
“However, this is another disturbing assessment, statistic: 20 percent of the entire 545 billion budget napunta lang sa 15 na contractors. Sa 15 na contractor na ‘yan, lima sa kanila ay may kontrata sa buong Pilipinas,” said the Chief Executive.
President Marcos ordered the ongoing audit to investigate further why 20 percent of flood control projects went to only 15 contractors.
“That for me was the one that stood out very much. Five of these contractors had projects in almost the entire country. So those are the ones that immediately pop out na sa aking palagay ay kailangan natin tingnan,” said the President.
Recalling his term as Ilocos Norte governor, President Marcos said that local government units (LGUs) hire local contractors to ensure closer coordination and faster implementation of public works projects.
The President encouraged the public to provide information, as he emphasized that the DPWH has only provided initial findings on the review of flood control projects so far.
“We are not accusing anyone of anything yet. However, it gives us an idea of what, how this has been conducted. So, I hope the people will take advantage of this. And as I said, there is always a way for them to give their comments,” President Marcos said.
During his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, the Chief Executive ordered an audit of flood control projects under his administration, as he denounced the corruption that caused people to suffer from recurring flash floods during heavy rains. | PND
