The Department of Agriculture (DA) initiated legal action on Thursday, May 21, by filing complaints of graft and malversation against several regional public works officials and contractors. The case centers on P94-million worth of “ghost” farm-to-market road projects located in Davao Occidental that were funded in 2021.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Personally led the filing at the Ombudsman. During his inspection of the project sites, the Secretary reported finding only dirt roads, stating, “Wala akong nakita. Walang semento, walang bakal. Wala lahat.” (I didn’t see anything. There’s no cement, no steel. Nothing at all.)
Did You Know?
The Department of Agriculture is currently conducting a nationwide audit that requires visiting approximately 4,500 farm-to-market road project sites; to date, officials have completed inspections at 1,241 of these locations.
Allegations of Falsified Records
The respondents named in the complaint include Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials Rodrigo Larete, Joel Lumogdang, Michael Awa, Jafel Faunillan, and Czar Ryan Ubungen, who served as district and project engineers, a quality assurance officer, and a finance chief, respectively.
According to the DA, the respondents allegedly falsified critical documentation, including disbursement vouchers and certificates of payment, to create the appearance that the projects had been completed. Secretary Tiu Laurel noted that no politicians are currently listed as respondents, emphasizing that the department is focused on following the money trail.
Expert Insight:
The shift in oversight—with the DA now assuming control of farm-to-market road projects previously managed by the DPWH—signals a significant hardening of stance against infrastructure corruption. By aggressively pursuing these cases, the department is likely attempting to establish accountability for the P33 billion allocated for 2026 road maintenance and construction.
Implications and Ongoing Investigation
The current legal challenge is part of a broader crackdown on substandard and phantom infrastructure projects that began following a separate scandal involving flood control. Regarding the possibility of collusion between DA and DPWH personnel, Secretary Tiu Laurel indicated that the investigation remains active, noting that the agency has already issued a deadline for staff to respond to internal inquiries.
As the department continues its site inspections across the country, further findings could potentially lead to additional complaints or administrative actions. The outcome of this case may define the effectiveness of the DA’s new oversight role in securing agricultural infrastructure funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the respondents in the graft and malversation case?
The respondents include several regional public works officials from the DPWH, specifically Rodrigo Larete, Joel Lumogdang, Michael Awa, Jafel Faunillan, and Czar Ryan Ubungen, along with contractors involved in the projects.
What is the nature of the “ghost” road allegations?
The DA alleges that documentation, such as certificates of payment and disbursement vouchers, was falsified to make it appear that 2021 road projects in Davao Occidental were completed when, in reality, the sites contained only dirt roads.
Is the Department of Agriculture still investigating potential collusion?
Yes, Secretary Tiu Laurel stated that the possibility of collusion between DA and DPWH officials is being investigated and that personnel were given a deadline to respond to inquiries regarding these projects.
What measures do you believe are most effective in preventing the misallocation of infrastructure funds in rural development projects?
