COA Commands Immediate Inspection of Bulacan Flood Control Projects
The Commission on Audit (COA) has mandated an immediate inspection of all flood control projects in Bulacan amid a comprehensive fraud audit. This directive aims to scrutinize public spending from January 2022 to July 2025, focusing on verifying the legitimacy and progress of these projects.
In a memorandum dated August 20, 2025, COA Chairperson Gamaliel Cordoba instructed the Technical Services Office to assign technical personnel for on-site inspections. The goal is to assess both ongoing and completed flood control projects in Bulacan, ensuring the physical existence and compliance with approved plans and specifications.
Scope and Priorities of Inspection
Inspectors have been directed to prioritize projects with the highest contract costs. They are tasked with confirming two critical aspects: first, the actual presence and current status of the projects, supported by geo-tagged photos and videos; second, adherence to the design and quality standards stipulated in the contracts, including workmanship and materials used.
Official records reveal that out of ₱548 billion allocated nationwide for flood control, Central Luzon received the largest share at ₱98 billion. Bulacan alone was awarded ₱44 billion worth of projects, the highest in the region.
Bulacan Leads National Flood Control Initiatives
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., citing data from the Department of Public Works and Highways, listed Bulacan as the province with the most flood control projects—668 in total. Other provinces with significant projects include Cebu, Isabela, and Pangasinan.
Local leaders noted, “This measure is a testament to COA’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability in public spending.”
Ongoing Fraud Audit and Document Review
Fraud audit teams have already collected and are evaluating critical documents such as contracts, disbursement vouchers, and engineering plans. Officials reported that these efforts aim to identify irregularities, including ghost projects, incomplete works, and suspicious allocations amid worsening flood conditions.
Addressing Conflict of Interest Concerns
COA responded to reports that a corporation owned by the wife of Commissioner Mario Lipana was involved in some flood control contracts. The commission assured the public that all projects, including those linked to Commissioner Lipana’s family, will undergo rigorous and impartial scrutiny.
“Upholding transparency and due process is paramount to COA’s mission,” the commission emphasized. It was also clarified that Commissioner Lipana has been on official leave since August 11, 2025, for ongoing medical treatment.
Significance of Inspections Amid Flood Challenges
The inspections in Bulacan are part of a broader COA initiative to ensure accountability and transparency in flood control projects nationwide. Community members expressed hope that these efforts will curb corruption and improve the quality of flood mitigation infrastructure, crucial for protecting lives and properties.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
