NBI Considers Filing SEA Games Fund Misuse Complaint with DOJ

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation is deliberating on the proper venue for filing a complaint related to alleged misuse of substantial public funds allocated for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games hosted by the Philippines.

The investigation centers on the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee's handling of up to P10 billion in government resources during the event. The NBI is currently weighing whether to submit its findings to the Department of Justice or escalate the matter directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.

The decision on where to lodge the complaint carries significant implications for how the case will be prosecuted and investigated. Both agencies have jurisdiction over administrative and criminal investigations involving public officials and government entities, though referral to the Ombudsman typically signifies a more serious misconduct inquiry.

The 2019 SEA Games, held in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, faced scrutiny from various government oversight bodies regarding budget management and fund utilization throughout the planning and execution phases. Allegations of financial irregularities have prompted multiple investigations into how organizing officials managed public resources.

As the NBI completes its review, the agency's recommendation on the appropriate filing venue is expected to influence the scope and nature of any charges that may subsequently be filed against those responsible for managing the games' finances.