Pulong Duterte Dares NBI to Find Evidence in Flood-Control Probe
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Davao City First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte has challenged the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to produce evidence supporting allegations of irregularities in flood-control projects, saying investigators should focus on whether public funds were actually misused.
Duterte made the remarks in response to NBI Director Melvin Matibag as the bureau continues its investigation into alleged anomalies involving flood-control projects nationwide, including those in the Davao Region.
Duterte points to DPWH records
Duterte said records needed to examine the projects—including procurement documents, contracts and other details—are already with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the agency responsible for implementing the projects.
He questioned the need for investigators to publicly highlight information that can be obtained directly from government records.
Duterte acknowledged that possible irregularities in the awarding of flood-control contracts should be investigated. However, he argued that repeatedly winning government contracts should not, by itself, be considered proof of an illegal transaction.
Focus on possible losses to government
The lawmaker urged the NBI to determine whether projects involved overpricing, ghost projects, substandard construction, kickbacks or other forms of corruption that resulted in losses to the government.
He said investigators should follow the documentary trail of each project, from appropriation and procurement to bidding, contract award, implementation and payment.
NBI continues flood-control investigation
The NBI has been investigating alleged anomalies in flood-control projects across the country.
In January, NBI-Davao recommended the filing of charges against a contractor and 12 DPWH officials over an allegedly substandard flood-control project at La Verna Hills Subdivision in Barangay Buhangin, Davao City. The recommendation included possible violations of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
The bureau has also examined 13 flood-control projects in Davao Occidental with a combined value exceeding P1 billion after the projects were referred for investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman.
Duterte called on the NBI to coordinate directly with the DPWH and rely on documentary and other independent evidence rather than public accusations.
Duterte warns against “trial by publicity”
Duterte said investigators should release evidence if they find proof of wrongdoing and hold accountable those responsible, but cautioned against creating the impression that individuals have already been found guilty before an investigation is completed.
He also stressed that the probe should not become a personal dispute between officials.
For Duterte, the challenge is straightforward: follow the records, establish the evidence and determine whether public money was actually lost before drawing conclusions.
WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.D