MANILA, Philippines — Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan on Friday confirmed that a show cause order has been issued against those behind a non-existent flood control project in Baliwag City, Bulacan, warning that charges, suspensions, and even blacklisting await those found liable.

The controversy erupted after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself discovered that the supposed flood control project did not exist. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) immediately launched an internal investigation.

“I have already issued a show cause order to the individuals involved, particularly those who endorsed and implemented the project,” Bonoan said in an interview. “Once they submit their explanations, if we are not convinced, we will impose suspensions and file the necessary charges right away.”

DPWH issues show cause order over ghost flood control project in Bulacan, This news data comes from:http://fb-efn-kv-agrv.gyglfs.com

Among those linked to the irregularity were former First Engineering District chief Henry Alcantara and his replacement, Brice Hernandez, who were out on “floating status” pending the outcome of the probe.

Bonoan clarified that while district engineers were not required to be Career Executive Service Officers (CESOs), they must have passed the district engineering exam before appointment. He added that the department’s legal service was consolidating all documents needed to build the case.

Questions have also been raised about the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) of those involved. Bonoan said filing SALNs was mandatory but noted that access to the documents may be restricted under the Data Privacy Act unless covered by a lawful order.

As for the project’s contractor, identified as SYMS Construction, Bonoan stressed that the firm was not yet blacklisted, since blacklisting follows a legal process. However, he emphasized that aside from possible blacklisting, criminal liability could also be pursued given the gravity of the anomaly.

“Blacklisting is only for a year, after which they can rejoin bidding,” Bonoan explained. “But if they are criminally charged and found liable, that would mean perpetual disqualification from government projects.”

The DPWH chief said that due process must be observed but vowed that sanctions will be enforced once accountability was established.