ICI, DPWH seek charges vs eight ‘congtractors’ before Ombudsman

(October 23 2025) DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon along with Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla and ICI Chairman Andres Reyes held a press conference, after file malversation, graft charges before the Office of the Ombudsman against 22 DPWH officials and contractors for their alleged involvement in anomalous infrastructure projects in partnership with the ICI. Photo/Analy LaborANALY LABOR

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26 Nov 2025, 07:59

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) formally submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday afternoon the list of eight congressmen allegedly linked to the anomalous flood control scandal.

The eight lawmakers are: Former Ako-Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, Construction Workers Solidarity Rep. Edwin Gardiola, Uswag Ilonggo party-list Rep. James “Jojo” Ang Jr., Pusong Pinoy party-list Rep. Jernie Nisay, Bulacan 2nd District Rep. Augustina Pancho, Cagayan 3rd District Rep. Joseph Lara, Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Matugas, and Tarlac 3rd District Rep. Noel Rivera.

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla clarified that these solons are not the contractors of the flood control projects themselves, but that their family members own the construction firms involved, which links them to the alleged scheme.

“They have some names on their own and also have their immediate family,” DPWH chief Vince Dizon said.

“There is definitely a conflict of interest and here we have many cases that can be imposed on those who violate the law,” Remulla added.

ICI and DPWH delivered 21 boxes of evidence labeled with different annexes. According to Dizon, the documents include Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) records of the firms connected to the named congressmen.

77 under scrutiny

Remulla also revealed that 77 more public officials are being investigated and are currently under the Bureau of Immigration’s Foreign Travel Restriction Order (FTRO).

These individuals — from senators to contractors and congressmen — are subjects of the Ombudsman’s fact-finding probe, although Remulla said he would not disclose their names.

Call for Zaldy Co to return

Remulla admitted that he has not had time to watch the viral videos posted by Co, who has been releasing short clips accusing government officials of irregularities in flood control projects.

“With all the length and volume, I don't have much time to watch it,” Remulla said.

“We can all go on Facebook live, the test is, will he come home or not,” Dizon remarked.

ICI chairman Andres Reyes Jr., Dizon, and Remulla jointly urged Co to return to the country and face the allegations.

Ombudsman