Pasig City Demands More Documents for Flood Control Probe
The local government unit of Pasig City is actively pursuing a freedom of information (FOI) request to obtain critical documents related to the city’s flood control projects. Mayor Vico Sotto emphasized the importance of accessing these records to strengthen the investigation within the city’s jurisdiction.
While the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website offers a list of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) flood control projects in Pasig City, officials reported that this information is insufficient for a thorough evaluation. “The challenge is that we can’t judge the completeness/quality of the projects with just [this] info. We don’t want to just make a subjective judgment; we want real accountability. If it is complete and proper, then it is good; if there is a problem, we should know so we can act on it,” Mayor Sotto wrote in a mix of English and Filipino on social media.
Key Documents Needed for Transparent Review
Local leaders noted that the FOI request seeks access to the program of works and the Bill of Quantities for each flood control project. These documents detail essential aspects such as the materials used, project length, and precise measurements, which are vital to assessing the projects’ legitimacy.
In addition, the mayor identified the Detailed Unit Price Analysis and bidding documents as valuable resources for scrutiny. “These documents may also be worth looking at,” he added, underscoring the need for transparency.
Formal FOI Request to DPWH and Collaboration Plans
Community members said the Pasig LGU plans to formalize the FOI request to the Department of Public Works and Highways this week. With these documents in hand, the city government aims to assist the national government in conducting a thorough investigation within its jurisdiction.
Furthermore, officials reported that civil society organizations will be engaged to ensure long-term monitoring and accountability of flood control projects.
Background on Flood Control Project Concerns
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously disclosed that out of the total P545-billion budget allocated for flood mitigation projects from July 2022 to May 2025, P100 billion was awarded to just 15 out of 2,409 accredited contractors. This raised eyebrows among local leaders and residents alike.
Sotto highlighted that two contractors—Alpha & Omega Gen. Contractor & Development Corp. and St. Timothy Construction Corp.—that received the bulk of these projects were owned by the Discayas, the family of his 2025 mayoral election rival Sarah Discaya. This connection has intensified calls for transparency.
Although the president described these findings as a “disturbing assessment” without directly accusing the contractors, he noted that they “stood out very much.”
Mayor Sotto’s Stand on Corruption and Government Contracting
Mayor Sotto described corruption in government contracting as an “open secret” within the public sector. He explained that corruption can occur in six stages, with anomalies or collusion potentially happening as early as the procurement or bidding process.
He vowed that Pasig City will forward all relevant information and “red flags” regarding corruption in government contracts to the national government for further action.
Nationwide Call for Transparency and Accountability
Following Pasig’s lead, Malacañang urged other local government units across the country to report any irregularities found in government projects. This collective effort aims to foster greater accountability and prevent misuse of public funds.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
