Manila, Philippines — Senator Chiz Escudero has urged a full investigation into alleged ghost flood control projects, calling out Speaker Martin Romualdez and Congressman Zaldy Co among those who should be included in the probe.
Escudero said some flood control projects were funded even in areas that never experienced flooding, raising doubts that the projects were real. He warned that powerful officials must not be protected.
> “Huwag tayong sumunod sa script ni Martin Romualdez. Imbestigahan ang lahat — congressman man o senador,” Escudero said.
The senator mentioned claims from a witness who allegedly delivered bags of money to Romualdez and Co — something both lawmakers denied, saying the accusations were politically motivated.
Analysts say this issue could affect the unity of the Marcos administration, as Romualdez is a cousin of President Bongbong Marcos. Escudero’s move is seen as a challenge to political favoritism and a call for government accountability.
He also urged the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to trace where the flood control budget really went.
> “Ang pera ng bayan ay para sa proyekto, hindi sa bulsa ng iilan,” Escudero added.
About the Issue:
A “ghost project” means a government project that receives funding but is never actually built or completed. These fake or unfinished projects often lead to corruption, as public money disappears without any real benefit to communities.
