President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday disclosed that an initial review found PhP100 billion worth — or 20 percent — of all flood control projects in the past three years were undertaken by only 15 contractors.
Citing the preliminary report of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Marcos said that PhP545 billion in public funds had been allocated to flood control projects nationwide since July 2022.
“I don’t know about you, but that is a very big number. By any measure, that is an enormous number,” the President said in a press conference in Malacañang.
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The DPWH identified a total of 2,409 contractors for both local and national flood control projects.
“However, this is another disturbing assessment, statistic: 20 percent of the entire 545 billion budget napunta lang sa 15 na contractors. Sa 15 na contractor na ‘yan, lima sa kanila ay may kontrata sa buong Pilipinas,” said the Chief Executive.
Marcos has ordered the ongoing audit to probe why such a significant portion of the projects went to just 15 contractors.
“That for me was the one that stood out very much. Five of these contractors had projects in almost the entire country. So those are the ones that immediately pop out na sa aking palagay ay kailangan natin tingnan,” he said.
Recalling his term as Ilocos Norte governor, Marcos noted that local government units (LGUs) usually hire local contractors for better coordination and faster implementation of public works.
The President also urged the public to share information as the DPWH’s review is still in its initial stage.
“We are not accusing anyone of anything yet. However, it gives us an idea of what, how this has been conducted. So, I hope the people will take advantage of this. And as I said, there is always a way for them to give their comments,” he said.
During his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, Marcos ordered an audit of all flood control projects under his administration, condemning corruption that, he said, continues to worsen the effects of flash floods during heavy rains.
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