COA submits to ICI findings on ₱330-M ‘ghost’ projects

The Commission on Audit (COA) turned over to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) four fraud audit reports (FAR) on ₱330 million “ghost” flood-control projects in Bulacan and recommended the prosecution of those responsible.

- By REY G. PANALIGAN

It said the projects were implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) Bulacan 1st District Engineering Office and Wawao Builders.

“COA's special audit team (SAT) found strong indications that public funds were exposed to possible fraud through nonexistent structures, relocated projects, and unsupported claims of 100 percent completion,” the COA said in its reports.

The COA recommended the filing of graft, malversation of public funds, and falsification of public documents against those responsible in the four “ghost” projects.

It said the first project, with a total cost of P77,197,885.27, was for the construction of a riverbank protection structure at Barangay Calero, Malolos City, Bulacan.

However, it also said that its technical inspection and review of geotagged photos and satellite images confirmed that no riverbank protection structure was constructed at the approved site, nor at the location identified by the DPWH representative, even if the project records reported full completion.