Possible infra project whistleblower reaches out via counsel - Remulla

Metro Manila, Philippines - Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said a lawyer of a potential whistleblower in the controversial infrastructure projects has reached out to him.

He said the lawyer told him the possible whistleblower will provide details on ghost projects in Central Luzon of at least P5 billion.

“Nagbigay lang sa'kin ng idea na 'yung contractor, ang kinuha 40 percent; ang DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways), gan'to… Basta marami nang modus na sinabi sa 'kin,” the justice chief said in a briefing on Friday, Aug. 29.

[Translation: The lawyer gave me an idea on how it works: The contractor gets 40 percent and a portion also goes to the DPWH. They divulged several modus to me.]

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered an audit of infrastructure projects, particularly those for flood control after successive tropical cyclones inundated several parts of the country in July.

READ: 15 contractors cornered ₱100-B flood control projects - Marcos

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said some lawmakers receive kickbacks from infrastructure projects.

The Senate has begun its inquiry on the supposed anomalous flood control projects while the House of Representatives infrastructure committee will begin on Sept. 2.

READ: Half of 15 contractors skip Senate flood control probe