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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider NBI asked to probe multi-million flood control projects in San Carlos City

NBI asked to probe multi-million flood control projects in San Carlos City

Published Aug 21, 2025 09:55 pm
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Renato Gustilo of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental has requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate three flood control projects totaling P306 million allegedly implemented in the city under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) by three Cordillera-based contractors.
In a media interview, Gustilo said the DPWH Central Office in Manila recently sent him a letter asking him to authenticate the three projects – the P151.5-million flood control project in Barangay Palampas, reportedly carried out by APO General Construction from Mountain Province; a P77.5-million project on the Ando-on River by EKC Construction and Aggregates from Benguet, and a P77.3-million flood control structure on the Jigalaman River in Barangay Guadalupe, implemented by Jaben General Contracting and Engineering Services, also from Benguet.
Gustilo strongly denied involvement in these projects, asserting that his signature was forged and that the city government never entered into a contract with the three contractors. He said that he does not know any contractor from Benguet.
In a statement released in his social media page, Gustilo said that the projects in question were implemented solely by the DPWH without any consultation or coordination with the local government.
“The city government was not involved in the selection, study, allocation, or implementation of these projects,” Gustilo said. He said the local government is not responsible to explain how the national budget was spent on these projects.
He reiterated that he is prepared to file legal action once the NBI concludes its investigation.
Gustilo lamented that unclear messaging and misinformation surrounding the issue have caused public distrust. “Ambiguity derails purpose and leads to uncertainty, thus fostering social division," he added.
As a city leader, he remains hopeful that the truth will prevail. “Above all, I trust that our continued efforts toward honest and dedicated service will strengthen and uplift our community. Let us continue to enlighten and assuage doubts with calmness, truth, and integrity."
Gustilo said that narrow drainage systems are one of the factors that caused flooding in the city, and proper flood control measures are necessary.

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Mayor Renato Gustilo San Carlos City NBI DPWH
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