LAS Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos today affirmed his readiness to submit documents, communications, and other relevant records to the Office of the Ombudsman’s newly formed special task force investigating alleged irregularities in multi-billion peso flood control projects in Southern Metro Manila.
The projects, which cover areas in Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, and Bacoor, have drawn public attention following claims that portions of the developments may have indirectly benefited properties linked to the Villar family, including former Senators Manny and Cynthia Villar, as well as incumbent Senators Mark and Camille Villar.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla confirmed that the task force will examine the construction of the Zapote River Drive and related flood control infrastructure.
Remulla noted that the multi-billion peso project spans roughly 11 kilometers, with land along the project perimeter widely believed to be connected to the Villars.
Santos welcomed the investigation, stressing that transparency—not political rivalry—should guide the process.
“We welcome the investigation because the people deserve clear answers,” Santos said. “If public funds were used for private advantage, that must be addressed. If not, then the investigation will also help restore confidence. Either way, transparency is good for everyone.”
Santos said his office has already compiled documents and is prepared to fully cooperate once the task force begins formal proceedings.
Documents from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reviewed by Santos’ office show multiple infrastructure contracts in Las Piñas from 2022 to 2025 going to Motiontrade Development Corp., owned by Christian Aguilar—uncle of Senator Mark Villar—and related companies.
Motiontrade reportedly secured four flood control projects in Calabarzon worth over ₱390.9 million, and a total of 32 public works contracts amounting to ₱2.8 billion from 2023 to 2025.
The investigation will also include other infrastructure projects allegedly linked to Villar-associated contractors.
DPWH records further showed that the Las Piñas–Muntinlupa District Office awarded 145 projects to three contractors: I&E Construction Corp. (33 projects), Zero One Construction and Trading Inc. (33 projects), and Omnicon Builders (79 projects).
Phase 3 of the controversial C-5 Diversion Road in Las Piñas, costing ₱94 million and set for implementation from February to October 2025, is currently being handled by I&E Construction Corp., headed by Aguilar. The project is already experiencing a 6.17% slippage.
Aguilar also serves as managing officer of Omnicon Builders and Motiontrade Development Corp., which hold additional active DPWH contracts in Las Piñas and neighboring provinces.
“We will provide what we have—site reports, correspondence, maps, engineering assessments, and any additional information needed,” Santos said. “Our only objective is to ensure that government funds are used properly and that communities’ benefit from flood control projects as intended.”
Santos emphasized that residents in Las Piñas and surrounding cities must be at the core of the investigation, citing persistent flooding issues that continue to affect daily life, business activity, and public safety.
