CoA files 4 Financial Audit Reports worth over P275 million for flood control projects in Bulacan; it flags ghost projects, unauthorized transfers, and questionable achievements
The Commission on Audit (CoA) has filed four Fraud Investigation Reports (FARs) before the Office of the Ombudsman involving more than P275 million in flood control projects in Bulacan, citing alleged ghost projects, unauthorized relocations, payments to pre-existing agencies, and severe lack of documentation.
Projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Bulacan 1St The Regional Engineering Office was also awarded to SYMS Construction Trading and Wawao Builders.
The CoA said the filing of the charges underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability to ensure public funds earmarked for flood control are used appropriately.
Based on physical examinations, tagged photos, and historical satellite imagery, federal auditors reported recurring violations:
Ghost Projects: No flood control or riparian protection structures have been found in the approved project areas, despite reports that the projects have been completed or substantially completed.
Unauthorized relocation: In several cases, DPWH representatives allegedly led inspectors to areas different from those specified in approved plans and contracts, without revised plans or written authority.
Pre-existing property payments: Satellite imagery showed that some structures to protect the river bank were already in place before the contract was executed, suggesting that it may have paid for works that have not yet been built.
Documentation deficiencies: Necessary documents, including as-built plans, detailed cost breakdowns, Statements of Work Accomplished, and approved master plans, may have been incomplete or lost, undermining the credibility of accomplishments and payments.
Audit Coverage
The fraud audit is based on an order issued on Aug. 12, 2025 by CoA Chairman Gamaliel A. Cordoba orders an immediate review of DPWH flood control projects in Bulacan covering July 1, 2022 to May 30, 2025, following public concerns over alleged ghost projects and corruption.
Conflicting Projects
Hagonoy, Bulacan (SYMS Construction Trading)
The P67.55-million project involves the construction of a reinforced flood control structure in Barangay Santa Monica (Purok 6 to Purok 7). The CoA reported that no such structure was found in the selected area despite the fact that the project was declared 100% complete as of June 11, 2024 and fully paid for by June 19, 2024.
Pandi, Bulacan (SYMS Construction Trading)
The P39.60-million riverbank protection project in Barangay Malibong Bata was allegedly constructed in a different location from that specified in the approved engineering plans, without a written authorization for relocation. Properties found on both approved and identified sites could not be fully linked to the contract. Several important documents were also missing.
Baliuag, Bulacan (Wawao Builders)
The P72.37-million Phase IV riverbank protection project in Barangay San Roque was reportedly built on a different site than what was shown in the approved bid plans. The building had a sign associated with another project. The marked progress photos used to support the payments were taken before the Notice of Progress was issued and identified a different barangay. The CoA also cited overlapping areas of the project with another flood control contract and incomplete documentation.
Plaridel, Bulacan (Wawao Builders)
The P96.50-million flood control structure along the Angat River in the Lumang Bayan section was found to have structures in place at least 90 days before the contract execution, based on satellite imagery and inspections. These structures had different contract identifiers and differed in design from the approved systems. Apart from this, the project was reported to be 100% completed within 65 days from the execution of the contract. The auditors also noted that supporting documents were missing.
Potential Violations
The CoA said those involved may face charges for violating Republic Act No. Possible violation of COA Circular No. 2009-001 was also cited.
The audit agency said additional reports may be filed with the Ombudsman as the investigation continues, in line with the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
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