Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) inspection reports indicate that the P96.5 million flood control project in Culaman, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental underwent repair works following damage caused by flooding in November 2022.

The reports, which include drone footage providing an aerial view of the site, were furnished to the Daily Tribune by DPWH sources. The inspection documents show that portions of the project required repairs after being affected by extreme flooding, and that the contractor carried out the corrective works under existing warranty provisions.

“It also underwent repairs on some parts due to extreme flooding in November 2022, but the contractor performed the necessary repair works at no additional cost to the government as a warranty under existing laws,” one source said.

The project involves the construction of a concrete revetment and was implemented by the DPWH Davao Occidental District Engineering Office under Project ID 22LE0029. It was awarded in 2022 to St. Timothy Construction Corporation, owned by contractor Cezarah “Sarah” Discaya.

Discaya, along with District Engineer Rodrigo C. Larete, Assistant District Engineer Michael P. Awa, several section chiefs, project engineers, inspectors, and Ma. Roma Angelin Rimando of St. Timothy Construction Corporation, faces charges linked to allegations that they conspired to facilitate the release of funds for a revetment project that was allegedly not constructed.

The charges cite violations of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as Articles 217, 171, and 172 of the Revised Penal Code involving malversation of public funds and falsification of public documents.

According to the inspection records, the project exists on-site, with documentation showing completed sections and areas that required post-construction repairs due to flood damage.