President Marcos intends to see the investigations into irregular flood control projects concluded and those responsible held accountable before the end of his term, Malacañang said.

Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said this after the President expressed anger after seeing that a riverwall project in Bulacan was tagged as completed despite not having started construction.

In her press briefing on Wednesday, Aug. 20, the Palace Press Officer emphasized that Marcos wants someone to be held accountable for the so-called “ghost” or substandard flood control projects nationwide.

“'Yan po ang gagawin po ng Pangulo (That’s what the President will do),” Castro said when asked if Malacañang can assure the public that someone would be prosecuted before Marcos steps down in 2028.

Castro said the President has directed agencies to expedite the inquiry, but stressed that it must be thorough and supported by proof.

“Ninanais din po niya na makumpleto ang bawat ebidensiya (He also wants to complete all the evidence),” she said.

“Mahirap magturo lamang nang hindi mapapatunayan (It is difficult to point fingers without proof),” she added.

Asked about reports linking some contractors to senators, Castro said those allegations will also be investigated.

“Malapit man, kaibigan man … kung nakakasama sa mga anomalyang katulad nito, ito po ay paiimbestigahan at pananagutin ang dapat managot (Whether they are close, a friend, or dear to him—if they are involved in these anomalies, they will be investigated and those responsible will be held accountable),” she said.

The Palace earlier said a legal team is reviewing DPWH flood control projects across the country after several were found to be non-existent or far below declared specifications.

The President himself inspected one such project in Baliuag, Bulacan, on Wednesday, and later warned that economic sabotage charges may be filed.