NBI Agent Testifies on Rapidly Completed 'Ghost' Flood Control Project in Bulacan
During a bail hearing at the Sandiganbayan Third Division, an agent from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) provided startling testimony regarding a P92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan. This project is currently at the center of a graft and malversation case involving former Senator Ramon Revilla Jr.
Project Declared 95% Complete in Just 21 Days
Atty. Ivan Bernard Samson of the NBI revealed that the "notice to proceed" for the flood control initiative was issued on April 8, 2025. However, the project was astonishingly declared 95.17% complete by April 29 of the same year—a mere 21 days later. This timeline is particularly concerning as experts estimate that such a project could realistically take up to 270 days to finish properly.
Video inspection conducted on September 16, 2025, showed only a sandy riverbank, casting further doubt on the reported completion status. The discrepancy between the official declaration and the actual site conditions has raised serious questions about the integrity of the project's implementation and documentation.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
The NBI agent confirmed that no subpoena was issued against Revilla, relying instead on the testimony of former Public Works undersecretary Roberto Bernardo as evidence. According to the agent, the weight of the evidence against Revilla was deemed sufficient for prosecution without additional legal compulsion.
In response, Revilla, through his lawyer Atty. Francesca Senga, has vehemently denied all allegations. The defense labeled the claims as "hearsay" originating from what they described as an "unbelievable and unreliable source." This sets the stage for a contentious legal battle as the case progresses through the Sandiganbayan.
Implications for Accountability and Governance
This case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in public infrastructure projects. The rapid declaration of completion for a multimillion-peso flood control project, coupled with minimal visible progress, underscores potential vulnerabilities in project monitoring and oversight mechanisms.
As the judicial process continues, stakeholders are closely watching for outcomes that could influence future anti-corruption efforts and infrastructure governance in the region. The testimony from the NBI agent adds a critical layer of evidence that may shape the court's decision regarding the bail petition and the broader case against the former senator.
