The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has recommended to the Office of the Ombudsman an investigation into possible administrative and criminal violations committed by former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials in connection with a P72.3-million flood control project in Plaridel, Bulacan.

In its interim report, the Commission identified the following:

• Former DPWH Sec. Manuel Bonoan

• Former Usec. Roberto Bernardo

• Former Usec. Maria Catalina Cabral

• Ex-Engr. Henry Alcantara

• Ex-Engr. Brice Hernandez

• Eumir Villanueva

RH Jecelle Ricafort reports that these individuals have been tagged as potentially liable for breaches of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, Malversation, Falsification, Presidential Decree No. 1759, and the Government Procurement Reform Act.

The project, identified as Contract ID No. 25CC0148, was implemented by the DPWH Bulacan First District Engineering Office through Topnotch Catalyst Builders Inc. It was intended to construct a riverbank protection structure in Barangay Bagong Silang, Plaridel.

However, based on findings from the Commission on Audit (COA) and ICI’s own technical assessment, the structure was never built at the location specified in the approved bid plans.

Instead, it was allegedly relocated without sufficient documentary justification. Despite this, the DPWH reportedly released and fully paid the contract cost to the contractor.

The ICI concluded that the project was effectively not implemented, noting that certain DPWH officials appeared to have been “grossly negligent, if not remiss, in the performance of their duties,” resulting in “evident injury to the government.”

In his statement on Tuesday, ICI Chairperson Andres Reyes Jr. emphasized the Commission’s commitment to accountability, stating:

“Public office is a public trust. It is a sacrifice for the betterment of the Filipino people, not a means to make one’s life better at their expense. And please, do not steal the people’s money.”

Reyes added that the Commission will continue submitting reports and referrals to the Ombudsman as part of its ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public infrastructure projects.

“Expect more references, referrals to the Ombudsman. More are coming,” he warned.