NBI finds possible ‘double payments’ in ₱55-M SEA Games cauldron project

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 10, 2026

Photo courtesy: The Tourist Gaze

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) says it has uncovered evidence indicating that the controversial cauldron used during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games may have been paid for twice.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said investigators found an entry in a document that appeared to show duplicate payments linked to the project, which had a declared cost of ₱55 million.

Matibag said two additional witnesses recently came forward and provided testimonies and documents that could strengthen the bureau’s investigation.

According to the NBI chief, investigators are still establishing the exact transactions involved and cross-checking the new evidence against records previously obtained by the bureau.

He also said the cauldron should have cost around ₱30 million, raising the possibility that the project involved both overpricing and duplicate payments.

The new evidence has prompted the NBI to conduct further verification before filing complaints. Matibag earlier said cases could be filed soon over alleged irregularities related to the cauldron, but the bureau is now reviewing the additional documents before proceeding.

The cauldron was built at New Clark City in Tarlac and served as one of the most prominent structures during the Philippines’ hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019.

The NBI clarified that its investigation is focused mainly on facilities and transactions involving the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC), rather than projects directly undertaken by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

According to Matibag, PHISGOC received funds from government-linked sports and gaming agencies, including the Philippine Olympic Committee, Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

The bureau has been examining possible criminal liability arising from alleged irregularities in the organization and spending for the 2019 Games.

Earlier, Matibag said investigators were considering complaints involving plunder and violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, although the final charges and respondents will depend on the evidence gathered.

The NBI has yet to announce when the complaints will formally be filed or identify all individuals who may face charges.