Senators Camille and Mark Villar have denied allegations that they obstructed or sought to alter the alignment of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) Extension Project, following claims made by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla.
In his program Executive Session on DZRH, Remulla said the Office of the Ombudsman is investigating reports that two senators allegedly opposed the original alignment of the project. He claimed that the alleged opposition was connected to concerns over land routes and possible interests tied to property holdings. Remulla emphasized that the matter remains under verification.
“Iiimbestigahan namin… kasi dapat ‘yan, umabot na ng Cavite ‘yan. Kaya lang ang naging kwento, we are still determining kung totoo o hindi, meron talagang senador, two senators, ‘yung mga Villar, who were going against the alignment,” Remulla said.
He further alleged that the original alignment may have been affected by proposals involving alternative routes. “Gusto nila dumaan sa lupa nila kasi may alignment na ‘yan doon sa Sucat. Doon tinigil nila… gusto nila itaas sa C-5 kung saan may lupa sila,” he added.
Remulla also raised concerns about possible influence within the legislative process, noting that the investigation is ongoing and no conclusions have been reached.
In response, Camille Villar strongly denied any involvement in the project’s planning or execution.
“I deny any allegation that I intervened, influenced, or obstructed the alignment or implementation of the LRT-1 Extension Project. I have not had any participation in any discussion, deliberation, or meeting relating to the LRT-1 extension project, either in my personal capacity or as a Senator,” she said on June 17, 2026.
She added that she welcomes any impartial investigation, expressing confidence that the facts will support her conduct as a public official.
In a separate statement, Mark Villar also rejected the allegations, saying he has never used his position for personal interest or to delay government infrastructure projects.
“I vehemently deny allegations that I delayed or blocked the implementation of the LRT-1 extension project. I have never used my position for personal gain. My track record speaks for itself. I welcome any legitimate investigation on the matter,” he said on June 16, 2026.
As of this writing, the Ombudsman has not released further findings, and the matter remains under evaluation.
