CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC), led by its Chairman Dr. Louie F. Ceniza, PhD, noted recurring flooding incidents and apparent gaps in river protection systems during an extensive ocular inspection of flood control, drainage, slope protection, and revetment projects in all Rivers, Creeks and other critical waterways in Cagayan de Oro City, to verify the actual status, coverage, and effectiveness of major flood mitigation and drainage infrastructure funded by public resources.
It prompted questions regarding:
– Project continuity and alignment across adjacent sections
– Quality of workmanship and materials
– Compliance with approved engineering designs and locations
– Possible project fragmentation, duplication, or ineffective segmentation
– Accuracy of reported project completion and physical accomplishments
It prompted questions regarding:
– Project continuity and alignment across adjacent sections
– Quality of workmanship and materials
– Compliance with approved engineering designs and locations
– Possible project fragmentation, duplication, or ineffective segmentation
– Accuracy of reported project completion and physical accomplishments
The inspection was initiated following numerous complaints from residents living along riverbanks, creeks, and low-lying communities in Cagayan de Oro City.
Despite the reported completion of multiple flood control and drainage projects, residents continue to experience severe and recurring flooding during heavy rainfall, raising serious concerns on the effectiveness, continuity, and actual existence of these infrastructure projects.
“When records show more than ₱3.5 billion spent on flood control, drainage, and river protection, yet communities continue to suffer recurring floods, there is a compelling need for independent and technical verification. Our responsibility is to establish the truth on the ground and help ensure accountability for every peso spent,” Chairman Ceniza stated.
Early in the morning, the PACC team visited strategic sites and deployed technical personnel to conduct on-site verification, engineering assessment, and documentation, comparing actual field conditions with official project records.
The inspection was undertaken in coordination with PACC’s volunteer Technical Team of Civil Engineers and was joined by PACC Spiritual Adviser Bishop Rod Cubos, Board of Trustees Atty. Michael Florentino Dumlao, MGen Romeo Calizo, Dr. Allan Japor, and Pastor Richie Cubos.
Based on records obtained from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the PACC identified multiple flood control, drainage, slope protection, and revetment projects across Cagayan de Oro City, with an aggregate reported cost of ₱3,547,135,563.10.
Chairman Louie F. Ceniza emphasized that the inspection is fact-based and non-political, undertaken solely in pursuit of accountability and public safety.
The PACC technical team will consolidate its findings into a comprehensive technical and investigative report, which will be formally submitted to appropriate government oversight, audit, and enforcement agencies.
Should evidence indicate substandard construction, ghost or incomplete works, misrepresentation of project status, or misuse of public funds, the PACC will recommend the filing of appropriate administrative, civil, and criminal cases, in accordance with existing laws.
The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar reiterates its commitment to voluntarily assist the Philippine Government in advancing transparency, accountability, and integrity in public infrastructure projects—particularly those that directly impact public safety, disaster resilience, and the welfare of Filipino communities.
