Deeper probe into Iloilo flood control projects mulled

ILOILO – Allegations of irregularities in multimillion-peso flood control projects have prompted members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) to rally behind calls for greater scrutiny, with officials from different districts stressing the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

Fourth District SP member Dominic Paul Oso said his office is ready to cooperate with any probe into the integrity of flood mitigation works. He underscored that the safety of residents must come before politics.

“So far, our office has not received any complaints or formal letters reporting anomalies in the projects. However, we are open to investigations,” Oso said.

Oso acknowledged hearing reports of problems but emphasized that specific barangays or projects must be identified and backed with documentation before formal action can be taken. He urged residents of the 4th District to raise their concerns directly to his office or through his official Facebook page, assuring that “all complaints will be treated with seriousness and confidentiality.”

His statement comes on the heels of 5th District SP member Rolex Suplico’s privilege speech, where he flagged flood control works in Ajuy town — ₱203.461 million in Barangay Barrido, ₱240.723 million in Barangay Pili, and ₱411.430 million in Barangay Mangorocoro.

Suplico filed a resolution demanding the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 release detailed records of contracts, including bills of quantities and contractor information, dating back to July 2022.

DPWH-6 officer-in-charge Regional Director Joel Limpengco confirmed receipt of the resolution, noting that the matter has been endorsed to the Iloilo 3rd District Engineering Office.

“But, we will ensure that this transition is completed with proper coordination and collaboration with the regional office… to maintain clarity and efficiency in addressing the issues raised,” Limpengco said.

Third 3rd District SP member Jason Gonzales also threw his support behind the probe. Initially skeptical, Gonzales changed his stance after Suplico detailed site visits and community complaints.

“Big budgets alone do not mean something is wrong,” Gonzales said, “but after hearing the specific issues raised, I believe there are valid grounds for investigation.”

Still, he cautioned against casting suspicion over all projects provincewide, stressing that accountability should be addressed case by case.

“Issues in one district should not lead to suspicion about the entire province,” Gonzales said, encouraging concerned residents to also report to his office./PN