DPWH to probe ‘ghost’ farm-to-market road projects in Marcos anti-graft drive

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will investigate irregularities in farm-to-market road projects flagged by the Agriculture department, widening the Marcos administration’s anti-graft drive.

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Public Works Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon has ordered close monitoring of the claims, Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro told a news on Tuesday, noting that anomalies in public works must be addressed swiftly.

“All cases like this involving anomalies — not just in flood control projects but in all infrastructure — will be closely monitored,” she said in Filipino.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P, Tiu Laurel, Jr. earlier reported “ghost” farm-to-market road projects in Davao Occidental and Zamboanga del Norte, some of which either do not exist or remain incomplete despite funding.

‘Two of the questionable projects date back to 2021 and 2022, he said, adding that the findings would be forwarded to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

The disclosures came as senators probe overpriced and substandard flood control projects. During hearings, contractors Cezarah Rowena “Sarah” C. Discaya and her husband Pacifico F. Discaya admitted to bribing lawmakers and officials to secure government contracts.

High-profile politicians have been linked to the scandal, including Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, resigned Party-list Rep. Elizaldy S. Co, Senators Francis G. Escudero, Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, and Joel J. Villanueva, as well as former Senators Nancy S. Binay and Ramon “Bong” B. Revilla, Jr.