Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative Junard "Ahong" Chan has firmly denied allegations of so-called "ghost projects" leveled by political critic Humprey Elvira, dismissing the claims as false and misleading. In a series of Facebook posts, Chan addressed the specific projects questioned by Elvira, including the Coastal Road Phase 2 in Barangay Pajo, explaining that construction has not yet started due to pending documentation and approval processes.
Chan's Defense of Project Status
Chan emphasized that these projects, along with the Tri-Level Interchange in Marigondon, are still in the pipeline and are designed to alleviate traffic congestion in major thoroughfares once implemented. He urged the public to ignore what he called "fake news peddlers" and verify facts independently. In a statement, Chan said, "Dili na ta sige'g tagad aning mga fake news peddler. Ako na lang hangyo sa mga taw, suta-a lang kung unsay tinuod. Makita ra bitaw na ninyu ang atong mga projects sa inyung palibot" (We should stop giving attention to these fake news peddlers. I just ask the people to check for yourselves what is true. You can see our projects right in your own communities).
Elvira's Allegations and Background
Elvira, the administrator of the Facebook page Kugtong sa Opon, alleged that nine projects listed in the so-called "Cabral Files" are ghost projects. He specifically cited the P300-million Multipurpose Building in Barangay Looc, which has yet to materialize. Elvira is a tattoo artist and a vocal critic of the Chan administration, regularly posting commentary on local government actions and officials in Lapu-Lapu City. He faces multiple criminal complaints filed by Chan and other local officials under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act 10175) and related laws.
Clarifications on Specific Projects
In response to the allegation regarding Barangay Looc, Chan clarified that the project is no longer a multipurpose hall but a "multipurpose facility." He noted that efforts are currently underway to secure its budget. The facility is planned to feature a standard Olympic-sized oval capable of hosting national and international sporting events, such as Batang Pinoy and Palarong Pambansa.
Chan also pointed out that similar accusations have been made in the past, referencing projects like the seawall in Barangay Caubian and the sewage treatment plant in Barangay Pajo, which he personally inspected. Additionally, he highlighted the completed water pumping station in Looc, which played a crucial role during a recent fire in the area.
Call for Public Verification
Chan revealed that an invitation was extended to Elvira to join site visits along with legal counsel and barangay officials, but he alleged that the invitation was ignored. The lawmaker urged the public to verify claims through official channels, such as barangay officials, the Department of Public Works and Highways, or official government social media pages, before sharing allegations online.
