MANILA—The Office of the Ombudsman filed graft charges against former congressman Elizaldy Co, several officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the board of directors of Sunwest Corp. over a PHP289 million flood control project in Oriental Mindoro.

The cases stem from a complaint filed by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on September 29, following a comprehensive report on alleged irregularities in the procurement, construction, and implementation of projects in Region 4-B (Mimaropa).

The project involved constructing a road dike along the Mag-Asawang Tubig River in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, with a budget of PHP289,498,230. Charges filed include malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents and violations of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act 3019).

Co was also charged under Section 3(h) of RA 3019 for receiving unwarranted financial benefits.

“Because the amount malversed exceeds PHP8.8 million, and in line with the law and jurisprudence, the panel of Ombudsman prosecutors has recommended no bail,” Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.

Investigations found that the measured sheet pile used in the project did not meet the required 12-meter specification and that materials were substandard. The Ombudsman said it is likely that all other sheet piles used were also below specification.

“These findings point to a scheme that resulted in unwarranted benefits, technical falsification, and the misuse of public funds,” the Ombudsman added, assuring the public that his office will pursue the case “firmly, independently, and without fear or favor.”

“Public funds were meant to protect communities from flooding – not to enrich officials or private contractors. Those responsible will be held to account,” Remulla said.

He noted that this is the first case referred by ICI and the first to be filed in court. “I would like to emphasize that this is the first of many cases that will be filed in court. There are several cases in the preliminary investigation stage and more in the fact-finding stage. We will update the media and the public as these cases become ripe for filing in court, as well,” Remulla added. (PNA)