By Tio MorenoFor those asking, this happened in Mawab, Davao de Oro.
The people here are now paying the price of corruption, negligence, and impunity. Despite DPWH Region XI’s denial, the Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC) confirmed that the collapsed ₱53.3-million flood-control project in Barangay Poblacion is nothing less than a scandal that demands a full investigation.
Just a few months after completion, the revetment along the Mawab River collapsed. During an inspection on September 2, PACC Chairman Doc. Louie F. Ceniza, PhD, and BOT member Allan Japor found:
- Entire sections destroyed beyond repair.
- Large cracks and hollow spaces that show weak construction.
- Steel bars sticking out, proving sloppy and careless work.
Instead of admitting fault, DPWH Region XI blamed rains, floods, and earthquakes. But that doesn’t make sense. Flood-control projects are built specifically to withstand storms and floods. If it already collapsed, the problem is the work, not the weather.
Guess who bagged the contract? Legacy Construction Corporation, the same company Bongbong Marcos himself flagged as the number one problematic contractor in the country.
Now, after delivering a failed project, DPWH wants to use the Quick Response Fund (QRF) to repair it. That means taxpayers pay twice, while the contractor escapes accountability.
This isn’t just about money. The people of Mawab now face a greater risk of flooding because the very project meant to protect them has already failed. Families, homes, and livelihoods are on the line.
This is the ugly face of corruption in public works. Build cheap, pocket the rest, blame calamities, and cash in again for “repairs.” Unless contractors and officials are jailed, blacklisted, and banned for life, these scams will continue draining our funds and endangering our people.
Mawab is just one of the victims. The real question is: who’s next?
