The Commission on Audit (COA) on Friday announced it filed four fraud audit reports before the Office of the Ombudsman involving more than P275-million worth of flood control projects in Bulacan.
It cited alleged ghost projects, unauthorized site relocations, payments for pre-existing structures, and serious documentation deficiencies.
The projects were implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office and awarded to SYMS Construction Trading and Wawao Builders.
Based on physical inspections, geotagged photographs, and historical satellite imagery, state auditors reported recurring irregularities.
These include no flood control or riverbank protection structures being found at approved project sites despite reports that the projects were completed or substantially accomplished.
Moreover, in several instances, DPWH representatives allegedly led inspectors to locations different from those specified in approved plans and contracts, without revised plans or written authority.
Satellite imagery further showed that some riverbank protection structures already existed prior to contract effectivity, raising the possibility that payments were made for works not newly constructed.
Finally, required documents, including as-built plans, detailed cost breakdowns, Statements of Work Accomplished, and approved master plans, were either incomplete or missing.
The fraud audit stemmed from a directive issued on Aug. 12, 2025, by COA Chairperson Gamaliel Cordoba, ordering an immediate review of DPWH flood control projects in Bulacan covering Jul. 1, 2022, to May 30, 2025, following public concerns over alleged ghost projects and corruption.
COA said 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.
Possible violations of COA Circular No. 2009-001 were also cited.
The audit body said additional reports may be filed with the Ombudsman as investigations continue, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for transparency and accountability in government spending.
