NBI uncovers P7 billion flood project concentration under Duterte

National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag disclosed Thursday that investigators have uncovered approximately P7 billion in flood-control projects in the congressional district of Davao City Representative Paolo "Pulong" Duterte that were awarded to one contractor.

The revelation raises concerns about the distribution of public infrastructure funds and potential irregularities in the project bidding process. Matibag indicated that initial assessments of the amount may require further refinement as the investigation progresses.

The concentration of such substantial project allocations to a single entity is unusual in government procurement, typically designed to ensure competitive bidding and fair distribution of public contracts. The NBI investigation appears focused on determining whether proper procurement procedures were followed in awarding these contracts.

The discovery comes as authorities examine infrastructure spending patterns in various congressional districts across the Philippines. Officials have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the specific projects involved or the name of the contractor in question.

The NBI findings are expected to prompt further scrutiny of public works allocations and may lead to additional investigations into procurement practices within the district.