FOURTY-SEVEN out of 100 flood control projects in the legislative district of Davao City 1st District Representative Pulong Duterte have been flagged with “red flags” following a review of documents obtained from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Melvin Matibag confirmed Thursday. Of the total flagged, six projects show clear and serious irregularities, including suspected ghost projects and substandard construction work.
Matibag disclosed that the NBI has issued subpoenas to 51 individuals linked to three construction firms involved in the questioned projects. Among these companies is Genesis88 Construction, which handled an estimated ₱1.9‑billion worth of flood control contracts in Duterte’s district. Also set to receive subpoenas are Agong Construction, Gemma Construction, the DPWH regional director, and officials from the Commission on Audit — notices expected to be served either Friday or Monday.
The NBI chief previously identified the owner of Genesis88 Construction as a “long‑time friend” of the Duterte family. During a separate inquiry before the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, ACT Teachers Party‑list Rep. Antonio Tinio also noted that the firm’s principal is not only close to the Dutertes but reportedly ranked among the largest campaign donors to Vice President Sara Duterte.
Responding to the developments, Rep. Duterte urged investigators to keep the inquiry focused on evidence rather than personalities. “This should not zero in on who keeps awarding contracts,” he said. “The question should be whether there is overpricing, ghost projects, substandard work, kickbacks, or any theft of public funds.” He appealed to Matibag not to make the investigation personal, emphasizing that the probe should center on the integrity of the projects themselves.
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