MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) said criminal complaints have been filed against 20 officials and employees of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Cebu 3rd District Engineering Office (DEO) over alleged irregularities involving two flood control projects in Balamban, Cebu.

The complaints, filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Cebu District Office, include allegations of illegal use of public funds and property, malversation of public funds, perjury, falsification of public documents, and violations of the Government Procurement Reform Act.

DOJ spokesperson Jose Dominic “Polo” Martinez said the projects under scrutiny are located in Barangay Singsing, Balamban.

He clarified that the cases remain at the preliminary investigation stage and that no final determination has been made.

“The department wishes to stress that these are complaints for purposes of preliminary investigation at this stage. Preliminary investigation only. So, no conclusive finding has been made yet,” Martinez said.

Martinez added that the respondents will be given the opportunity to file their counter-affidavits and present evidence before the DOJ resolves the complaints.

He said the cases are part of the government’s broader investigation into alleged anomalies involving flood control projects.

“Should further complaints be filed, whether by the NBI or any law enforcement agency, this office will evaluate them under applicable rules and procedures,” Martinez said.