The Philippine Ombudsman pledges evidence-driven investigation into alleged irregularities in the construction of sports facilities for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games amid contrasting developments.
Philippine Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced on July 18, 2026, that his office will base its renewed investigation into alleged irregularities involving the construction of 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) sports facilities strictly on verifiable facts and evidence. Remulla emphasized in a radio program that the case would only be definitively closed if it had undergone formal arraignment proceedings in court, which would invoke the principle of double jeopardy; otherwise, the investigation could proceed. This statement came following a prior dismissal of charges against Vince Dizon, former president and CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) during the construction of the New Clark City sports complex, due to insufficient evidence as announced by Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano in 2021. Malacañang confirmed Dizon’s clearance of all charges. Despite this, Remulla indicated he has directed his staff to review the entire 2021 case file to explore potential legal violations. Separately, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has initiated a probe, subpoenaing members of the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) to clarify their roles, including that of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who headed the organizing committee. The ongoing investigations occur amid political tensions, with Cayetano suggesting attempts to intimidate him prior to his involvement in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The Philippines proudly emerged as the overall champion in the 2019 SEA Games hosted in the country.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/995302/ombudsman-investigation-sea-games-sports-facilities/story/
