The Office of the Ombudsman extended its condolences to the victims and families affected by Typhoon Tino, which left widespread devastation across several regions of the country.

“To the families of all victims of the calamity — we hear you, and we have acted,” the Ombudsman said in a public statement released on Friday.

"A special task force previously designated to investigate flood control projects has been instructed to prioritize those projects meant to prevent the onslaught of Typhoon Tino," it added.

The Ombudsman assured the public that investigating flood control projects that failed to protect communities from the typhoon’s impact will now be a top priority.

“Justice will be pursued with compassion, diligence, and resolve,” it added.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla announced on Tuesday that a case will be filed before the Sandiganbayan on November 11, against individuals allegedly involved in anomalous flood control projects.

According to Remulla, the case will cover both those who directly participated in the irregular transactions and those who profited from the scheme.

Earlier, Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon stated that around 60 individuals linked to the flood control scandal could spend Christmas behind bars once the cases move forward.

Several government agencies have launched investigations into alleged anomalies in flood control projects after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. flagged the country’s top 15 contractors for possible irregularities.