MANILA (April 27) — The widening corruption probe over alleged irregularities in flood control projects is now expected to add more pressure on the construction and infrastructure sector, including projects implemented in parts of Mindanao, where contractors say uncertainty has already slowed work and payments.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said at least five to six additional criminal cases are being prepared within two weeks against former House Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, tied to a broader investigation into public works spending.
“Actually, isang kaso pa lang ’yan. Pero we have around five to six cases lined up. Sunod-sunod siya i-file within the next two weeks,” Remulla said.
The cases stem from an expanding probe involving alleged irregularities in flood control and infrastructure projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which funds road networks, drainage systems, and flood mitigation works across regions—including vulnerable areas in Mindanao.
DPWH project delays, contractor uncertainty
In Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Northern Mindanao, contractors and suppliers say the investigation has added uncertainty to project timelines, especially for government-funded flood control and road improvement works.
A mid-sized contractor based in Davao City said several DPWH-bidded projects have slowed down due to stricter document reviews and delayed notices to proceed.
“May projects na approved na sana, pero na-hold muna,” he said. “Hindi rin kami sure kung kailan ire-release ang next billing.”
Hardware suppliers and subcontractors have also reported slower procurement cycles, with some orders for cement, steel, and heavy equipment materials reduced or postponed.
In Cagayan de Oro, a construction supplier said government projects usually anchor steady demand in the off-season.
“Kapag DPWH projects, malakihan ang galaw ng materials,” she said. “Ngayon, mas paunti-unti ang labas.”
Asset freeze tied to wider probe
The development follows a Court of Appeals freeze order covering properties and bank accounts allegedly linked to Romualdez and businessman Jose Raulito Enoy Paras, as part of an Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) case build-up.
The order reportedly includes high-value assets and multiple bank accounts, which investigators say may be connected to possible violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Remulla said the freeze order is only the beginning of a broader legal action.
“All the cases will involve the same action by the AMLC,” he said.
Impact on infrastructure rollout
Officials say the probe is part of a broader government review of flood control spending—projects that are critical in Mindanao, where flooding regularly affects agricultural areas, urban drainage systems, and road connectivity.
But while investigations continue, contractors say the immediate effect on the ground is caution.
Some firms report slower bidding participation, tighter compliance checks, and delayed mobilization for new projects.
An engineer from Bukidnon said even ongoing works are feeling the ripple effect.
“Mas mahigpit na ngayon sa documentation at inspection,” he said. “Okay lang sana kung mabilis ang release ng pondo, pero minsan natatagalan.”
Broader accountability push
Remulla said the cases form part of a larger effort to trace alleged irregularities in infrastructure spending, stressing that more filings are expected as evidence builds.
“Hindi ito isang kaso lang. Sunod-sunod ito,” he said.
As the legal battle expands in Manila, stakeholders in Mindanao’s construction sector are watching closely—hoping that accountability measures will not further slow down urgently needed infrastructure projects, especially in flood-prone communities.
