P77-million flood project sparks fresh corruption case in Bulacan

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 29, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Philippine Information Agency

PHILIPPINES – A PHP77-million flood control project in Bulacan is at the center of new malversation and graft complaints, adding to growing scrutiny over alleged irregularities in the government’s flood control program.

The Office of the Ombudsman filed complaints against businessman and former lawmaker Zaldy Co and former Department of Public Works and Highways officials over the project, which investigators have described as a “ghost” project.

The case involves allegations surrounding the implementation of a flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan, where questions have been raised over whether the government-funded project was actually completed as reported.

The complaints add to the widening investigation into alleged corruption in flood control projects, particularly as billions of pesos have been allocated for infrastructure intended to protect communities from flooding.

The latest case puts government officials and contractors under renewed scrutiny over how public funds were approved, released and spent on projects meant to safeguard flood-prone communities.

The accused will have the opportunity to answer the allegations as the cases proceed through the legal process.

A project meant to keep floodwaters out is now exposing another flood of questions over where public money went.