The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has recommended to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) the filing of charges against 12 officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Davao Region over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.

The bureau said its validation of an investigation initiated by the ICI showed that several flood control projects in the region were either left incomplete or constructed below standard, raising concerns over compliance with technical specifications and the proper use of public funds.

The NBI added that it would also recommend to the Department of Justice (DOJ) the filing of formal criminal charges against the officials involved.

The recommendations stem from the NBI’s findings on flood control projects in Davao City, particularly a structure built at La Verna Hills Subdivision in Barangay Buhangin, which investigators found to be substandard and not in accordance with required engineering specifications.

According to the NBI, the surrounding area is considered a catch basin and is highly prone to flooding during heavy rainfall. Despite the presence of flood control infrastructure, residents in the area reportedly continue to experience flooding, prompting further scrutiny of the project’s design and execution.

The NBI declined to disclose the names of the contractor and the officials involved but confirmed that those recommended for charges include personnel from both the DPWH regional office and the Davao City district engineering office.

The recommendation follows earlier cases filed against eight DPWH officials in Davao Occidental over a separate flood control project in Malita town. Those officials are currently detained at the Lapu-Lapu City Jail.