COA files reports of P275M in DPWH ghost projects, deficiencies to Ombudsman

Title COA Uncovers Ghost Projects Worth P275M in DPWH; Files Reports with Ombudsman

Introduction The Importance of Transparency and Accountability in Government Spending

Transparency and accountability are essential principles for ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively. In line with this commitment, the Commission on Audit (COA) has recently filed four reports with the Office of the Ombudsman detailing ghost projects, unauthorized relocations, and questionable accomplishments valued at P275 million by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). This development highlights the importance of monitoring government spending to prevent irregularities and ensure that public funds are used for their intended purpose.

COA Reports A Comprehensive Look

The COA reports revealed ghost projects or the absence of flood control or riverbank protection structures in several areas, despite claims of completion or substantial accomplishment. These findings were based on physical inspections, geotagged photographs, and historical satellite imagery. The audit body also noted unauthorized relocations of sites, where DPWH representatives allegedly misled inspectors to locations different from those specified in approved plans and contracts.

Deficiencies in Required Documents A Concern

The COA reports also highlighted deficiencies in required documents, including as-built plans, detailed cost breakdowns, Statements of Work Accomplished, and approved master plans. These deficiencies undermined the credibility of reported accomplishments and payments. For instance, satellite imagery showed that some riverbank protection structures already existed prior to the contract's effectivity, raising concerns about potential overpayments for previous works.

Flagged Projects A List of Concerns

The projects flagged by COA include the construction of a reinforced concrete flood control structure at Sta. Monica, Hagonoy, Bulacan worth P67.55 million and a P39.6 million riverbank protection project in Malibong Bata, Pandi, Bulacan under SYMS Construction Trading. The audit body also flagged the P72.37 million Phase IV Riverbank Protection Project in San Roque, Baliuag, Bulacan and the P96.5 million flood control structure along the Angat River in Pulilan, Bulacan, which were under Wawao Builders.

Consequences Legal Actions

Those involved may face charges for violations of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as malversation and falsification of documents under the Revised Penal Code. The filing of these reports with the Ombudsman underscores COA's commitment to transparency and accountability in ensuring that public funds intended for flood mitigation are properly used.

Conclusion Promoting Transparency and Accountability

As we move forward into 2026, it is essential that we continue to promote transparency and accountability in government spending. The COA's reports serve as a reminder of the importance of monitoring government projects to prevent irregularities and ensure that public funds are utilized for their intended purpose. By fostering a culture of transparency, we can benefit everyone involved.

Keywords COA, DPWH, ghost projects, transparency, accountability, government spending, flood control

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.