Photo From : Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI)  
NATION

PNP vows integrity, justice in probe of DPWH ‘ghost projects’

Ralph Harvey Rirao

The Philippine National Police under Acting Chief PLTGEN Jose Nartatez Jr. reaffirmed its role in upholding integrity and justice amid the ongoing investigation into anomalies in flood control projects.

During the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) High Command Conference, Nartatez stressed that the PNP’s mandate goes beyond law enforcement, noting that it is also responsible for protecting public trust and ensuring the truth prevails.

“As protectors of the law and defenders of truth, it is our duty to ensure that every investigation is conducted with integrity and fairness. We will not yield to any influence or compromise because every step we take must be guided by honesty, accountability, and justice for the Filipino people,” Nartatez said.

The conference, held Wednesday, gathered senior officials from the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Justice, National Bureau of Investigation, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Public Works and Highways, and the PNP. The agenda focused on exposing and addressing “ghost projects” in public infrastructure.

Nartatez assured that the PNP’s involvement will strengthen the government’s case against corruption, saying the organization will provide intelligence, forensic, and investigative support.

“The PNP is not just an enforcement agency. It is a partner in building a nation founded on accountability and truth,” he said. “Our men and women are dedicated to ensuring that no wrongdoing escapes the reach of justice.”

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon also commended the heightened inter-agency coordination, noting that inspection teams composed of engineers, lawyers, and technical experts will be deployed nationwide to verify the legitimacy of infrastructure projects.

Several non-bailable cases involving more than 40 individuals are expected to be filed before the Sandiganbayan soon.

Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson PBGEN Randulf T. Tuaño reiterated the organization’s full commitment to the initiative, stressing that investigative and intelligence units continue to work closely with the ICI and partner agencies.

“The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in strengthening investigative efforts. Each piece of information we gather brings us closer to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability,” Tuaño said.