The Office of the Ombudsman confirmed on Monday, May 18, that it has officially received the Department of Justice (DOJ) resolution stemming from a preliminary investigation into alleged large-scale irregularities in government infrastructure spending, involving budget execution, public bidding processes, and project allocations.

Assistant Ombudsman Atty. Mico Clavano said the case originated from a complaint filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other government task forces, covering alleged anomalies linked to the National Expenditure Program, the Bicameral Conference Committee, and the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

“The Office of the Ombudsman confirms that our office has officially received a copy of the resolution from the Department of Justice… regarding extensive legislative and public works budget execution irregularities,” Clavano stated.

The DOJ panel alleged the existence of an “interconnected network” of public officials and private individuals who supposedly manipulated infrastructure projects, rigged bidding processes, and siphoned public funds, including alleged “30% cuts” in flood control projects.

The Ombudsman said it will conduct an independent review of the DOJ findings and may either affirm, modify, or reverse the recommendation as part of its evaluation process.