Ombudsman files 39 cases over flood control scandal

MANILA — The Philippines' graft watchdog is ramping up its investigation into the flood control scandal, with the Office of the Ombudsman having filed 39 cases since taking action on the matter, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

Remulla disclosed the scale of the investigation during his first annual report on Monday, revealing that of the 39 flood control-related cases, 35 have been filed before the Sandiganbayan, the country's anti-graft court, while four additional cases were lodged in regional trial courts across the archipelago.

The cases stem from allegations of mismanagement and irregularities in flood control infrastructure projects. The multi-pronged legal action reflects the Ombudsman's commitment to holding officials accountable for their handling of public resources meant to address the country's chronic flooding problems.

The filing of cases across multiple courts suggests the investigation has uncovered wrongdoing at various administrative levels, from national officials whose cases are heard by the Sandiganbayan to local government personnel tried in regional courts.