House Committee Expands Investigation to P51 Billion Flood Control Projects in Davao Under Paolo Duterte

The House Committee on Infrastructure is broadening its investigation into questionable flood control projects to encompass P51 billion worth of initiatives allegedly funded by Davao Representative Paolo Duterte’s office.

Committee Chairperson Terry Ridon announced that, beyond the initial inquiry into a P260-million substandard rock shed project in Benguet, the panel will now examine flood mitigation projects in Duterte’s district. This move responds to ongoing reports of flooding in Davao City.

"We intend to investigate further because flooding persists in Davao. The public is asking: What happened to the P51 billion? Why does the city continue to experience flooding despite this funding?" Ridon said during a Sunday interview.

Duterte acknowledged receiving P51 billion for projects covering the years 2020 to 2022, which coincides with his first term as congressman and the final three years of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. He urged authorities to verify the legitimacy of these projects amidst allegations of fund misuse.

Joel Chua, co-chair of the committee and representative for Manila, questioned the substantial allocation to Duterte’s district, suggesting that the funds might have been better utilized for pandemic-related medical supplies or to reduce national debt.

In response, Duterte refuted claims implying corruption, accusing fellow lawmakers of attempting to politicize the inquiry. He asserted that the projects in Davao were lawful, "constructed on solid ground," and beneficial to local residents.

During last week’s committee hearing, Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary for Planning Maria Catalina Cabral revealed that, according to a 2024 report, Duterte’s district received P13.74 billion for flood control projects in the 2020 budget alone. This allocation significantly exceeded Malacañang’s original proposal of P4.67 billion.

The investigation continues as the committee seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in the allocation and execution of flood control projects across the country.