DOJ resets probe on flood control scandal due to #UwanPH

The preliminary investigation of the Department of Justice (DOJ) into the multi-million-peso flood control scandal was reset following the suspension of work and classes across Luzon and parts of the Visayas due to severe weather conditions.

The initial hearing, originally scheduled for Monday, 10 November, was canceled after Malacañang ordered the suspension of government operations and classes in all levels.

Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the DOJ is targeting to proceed with the investigation later this week.

“We are looking at Friday provided subpoenas are all served,” Fadullon told reporters in a message.

The work suspension was ordered through Memorandum Circular No. 106, signed Sunday by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

The preliminary investigation will cover five major cases involving alleged “ghost” flood control projects.

DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez earlier confirmed that subpoenas were served to former top officials of the Bulacan First District Engineering Office (B1-DEO) and partner-contractors.

The DOJ is set to look into possible malversation, falsification of public documents, perjury, and violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019). The alleged anomalies involve projects that were either non-existent or awarded to contractors who “lent their license.”