Ghost Flood-Control Project Sparks Outrage in Bulacan
ALEX CASTRO – The Bulacan Vice Governor expressed his frustration after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. discovered what he called a “ghost project” in Baliuag, Bulacan.
The project was supposed to be a completed riverwall for flood control in Barangay Piel, but when the President visited the site, nothing was there. This was despite official records from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) claiming it was already finished.
President Marcos went to the area on Wednesday, August 20, after DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan revealed during a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing that some flood-control projects may have been faked. During his visit, the President was shocked to see that no work had ever been done. “Walang ginawa kahit isang araw, hindi nagtrabaho. Kahit puntahan n’yo, wala kayong makikita na kahit ano,” Marcos said, visibly angered by the discovery.
Vice Governor Castro reacted strongly on social media. In a Facebook post, he criticized those behind the project, saying: “Grabe kayo ang tindi nyo pera ng taong bayan binulsa nyo lang na dapat solusyon sa problema ng mga Bulakenyo. Kailangan may managot!”
One netizen commented that the situation was a huge embarrassment for Bulacan officials who seemed unaware of the issue. Castro replied, “yung mga magnanakaw hndi nila ipapaalam na magnanakaw sila,” pointing out how corruption is often kept hidden until exposed.
Meanwhile, President Marcos warned that officials and contractors linked to the ghost project will face serious consequences. He said those who approved or worked with the contractors in this scheme could be suspended and charged under the Anti-Graft and Corruption Practices Act. They may also face cases for misuse of public funds and falsifying government documents.
“Hindi natin palalampasin ito. Sususpendihin at kakasuhan ang lahat ng opisyal na nag-authorize at nakipagsabwatan,” Marcos declared, vowing that the government will take firm action on the matter.