Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon clarifies earlier denial of ghost flood control projects in Taguig amid ongoing investigations, with Senator Panfilo Lacson emphasizing a careful and transparent probe.
Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson expressed appreciation for the clarification provided by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon regarding the controversy over alleged ghost flood control projects in Taguig City.
The issue arose after Secretary Dizon initially made a categorical statement denying the existence of ghost flood control projects in Taguig during a Senate budget hearing. This prompted Senator Lacson to caution against hasty conclusions and potential cover-ups after reports surfaced that key project verification details were inaccessible to the public.
In his clarification, Dizon explained that his initial denial pertained specifically to conclusive evidence—defined as projects confirmed as ghost projects nationwide. He stated that among the ten confirmed ghost projects identified by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), none are located in Taguig.
However, Dizon acknowledged ongoing investigations into several Taguig flood control projects flagged for questionable irregularities, including the slope protection project on St. Timothy’s. These investigations have been submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman for validation and are yet to be finalized.
Senator Lacson welcomed this nuanced explanation, emphasizing that preliminary findings do not conclusively prove any project was ghosted, but also underscored that the possibility cannot be ruled out until investigations conclude.
He stressed the importance of transparency and due process, calling for restraint in drawing conclusions while the DPWH continues its onsite verifications and document cross-referencing. This clarifying dialogue between Senator Lacson and Secretary Dizon seeks to ensure accountability and integrity in the management of flood control infrastructure in Taguig City.
The ongoing scrutiny reflects heightened legislative oversight on government infrastructure projects, addressing public concerns about corruption and project authenticity in the Philippines.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/1004134/lacson-thanks-dizon-for-context-clarification-on-taguig-flood-control-projects/story/
