The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported that no structures were found in the ₱92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan, which is linked to a malversation case against former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr.
During a contingent inspection by the Sandiganbayan Third Division on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, DPWH Bulacan First District Engineering Office Officer-in-Charge Kenneth Fernando confirmed the absence of any visible accomplishment.
“Based on visual inspection, there is no seen accomplishment, your honor,” Fernando said when asked about the project’s status.
The project, identified by the prosecution as a “ghost project” under contract number 299, was supposed to span 128 meters. However, inspectors initially found no structures at the site.
Pressed further, Fernando reiterated:
“Because there are no structures seen, your Honor.”
Defense lawyers countered the claim, arguing that sheet piles may have been buried underground and that the inspection lacked technical basis.
Sandiganbayan Third Division Chairperson Karl Miranda then ordered DPWH maintenance personnel to verify the presence of buried sheet piles. After clearing tall grass, the crew discovered at least three sets of rusting sheet piles barely visible above ground.
Miranda, who personally walked through the uneven terrain identified as the project site, stressed the need for the court to confirm the findings.
“The court should be able to satisfy itself,” he remarked.
The inspection followed conflicting testimonies from prosecution witnesses, including one from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), who pointed to a nearby location as the project site.
While the prosecution maintained that the inspection reinforced their claim of a ghost project, the defense acknowledged the absence of visible structures but insisted that buried sheet piles and concrete piles exist along the riverbank.
Miranda clarified that the inspection team could not determine the depth of the sheet piles, noting they were only partially visible in certain areas.