DOJ to begin filing ‘ghost’ project cases in 40 days

By Wilnard Bacelonia, Philippine News Agency

The DOJ is also pursuing the conspiracy angle, citing collusion among Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials, contractors, legislators, and other individuals. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Thursday assured the public that the Department of Justice (DOJ) would begin filing cases within 40 to 60 days against those involved in ghost projects linked to corruption in public works.

During the resumption of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee probe into flood control anomalies, Remulla said five cases had been endorsed to the National Bureau of Investigation, while other complaints prepared by Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon’s office were transmitted directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.

“We make that commitment to the Filipino people. Hindi namin pababayaan ang kasong ito at we will pursue it to the very end (We will not abandon this case and we will pursue it to the very end),” Remulla said.

He said the first set of cases would cover “ghost” projects, to be followed by investigations into substandard projects.

The DOJ is also pursuing the conspiracy angle, citing collusion among Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials, contractors, legislators, and other individuals.

“This is like a conspiracy between some people from the DPWH, contractors, and legislators. And probably some other people also,” he said.

Remulla said due process requires time to build airtight cases.

“Forty would be the fastest. And at sixty would be safe,” he said, noting the need to issue subpoenas, secure affidavits, and prepare evidence before filing.

On coordination with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), Remulla admitted no formal talks have been held yet but said this would be addressed to avoid duplication.

“Madali na po iyon kasi kaibigan ko si Secretary Singson (That will be easy since Secretary Singson is my friend),” he added, referring to former DPWH secretary Rogelio Singson, one of the members of the ICI.