Ombudsman Files Charges Over ₱289-M Flood Control Project Irregularities in Oriental Mindoro

The Office of the Ombudsman has initiated criminal proceedings against former Ako Bicol party-list Representative Elizaldy Co, officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the board of Sunwest Corporation in connection with purported irregularities in a ₱289-million flood control initiative in Oriental Mindoro.

These charges arise from a complaint submitted by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on September 29, following an extensive investigation that uncovered potential illegalities and irregularities in the procurement, construction, and execution of several infrastructure projects within the Mimaropa region.

The contested project concerned the construction of a road dike along the Mag-Asawang Tubig River in Naujan, funded with a budget of ₱289,498,230.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla announced that the accused face charges of malversation of public funds via falsification of documents, as well as violations of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act 3019). Additionally, Co is charged under Section 3(h) for allegedly receiving undue financial gains.

"Given that the amount involved exceeds ₱8.8 million, and consistent with relevant laws and jurisprudence, the panel of Ombudsman prosecutors has recommended no bail," Remulla stated.

Investigations revealed that the sheet piles supplied for the project did not meet the required 12-meter specification and were of substandard quality. The Ombudsman noted that it is highly likely that all sheet piles incorporated into the project fell short of the technical standards.

"These findings suggest a deliberate scheme that led to unauthorized benefits, technical falsification, and misuse of public funds," the Ombudsman emphasized.

Remulla reaffirmed his commitment to hold responsible parties accountable, stating, "Public funds are intended to safeguard communities from flooding—not to enrich officials or private contractors. Those accountable will face justice."

This case marks the first criminal complaint filed based on the ICI’s findings.

"This is the inaugural case forwarded by ICI and consequently, the first filed in court. I want to underscore that this is just the beginning. Several other cases are currently under preliminary investigation or fact-finding stages. We will keep the public and media informed as these additional cases progress to filing," Remulla added.