Entrepreneur Jonathan Payawal So, known for his “Siomai King” brand, and business partner Carlito Macadangdang are not included in the current review by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), officials confirmed.
TWG Chairman Undersecretary Renato Paraiso said the pair are not among the more than 140 individuals under investigation, and their financial assets are not currently being reviewed.
The clarification followed reports of frozen accounts and properties tied to the businessmen.
An ICI official noted, however, that So and Macadangdang would be called in once the investigation is complete.
The inquiry primarily targets irregularities in flood control projects handled by Topnotch Catalyst Builders, with the Department of Justice reportedly monitoring potential connections of the two entrepreneurs.
So and Macadangdang have denied any wrongdoing, saying that they are ready to respond to any allegations through the proper legal channels.
The commission underscored that the ongoing review focuses on individuals identified in official records, and being outside the current list does not rule out future summons once further evidence is gathered.
Authorities have not yet announced when the investigation will end or whether formal charges will be filed against those involved.