The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has uncovered three “ghost” flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro province that are detailed in the 2025 General Appropriations Act but do not physically exist.
The discovery was made during an inspection by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, who was acting on a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to investigate irregularities in flood control projects nationwide.
During the inspection with Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito Dolor, Dizon discovered the non-existent projects at Panggalan River, Tubig River and Catuiran River. Dizon also found that a separate flood control project in Barangay Success was “substandard.”
“I don’t see any projects here. This is a figment of the imagination,” Dizon said during the inspection, which also revealed a pattern of irregularities in the bidding and awarding of projects.
Dizon said the DPWH is investigating and will file charges against officials and contractors behind the projects, noting that the agency has received almost 100 similar complaints.
He said the agency’s investigation revealed a “pattern” of “railroaded” bid awards, notices to proceed, and quick payments for projects.
“We see a pattern here, almost identical. The bidding, notice to proceed, and payment happened on consecutive days,” Dizon said, adding that he “wouldn’t be surprised” if the same pattern was found in other areas.
 has found three non-existent flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro, prompting an investigation into officials and contractors.){kind=link}