‘EXISTING AND ON SCHEDULE’: ICDEO says no ghost projects from Discaya-linked firms

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Iloilo City District Engineering Office (ICDEO) has denied allegations that four of its flood control projects are “ghost projects,” saying all are existing and progressing on schedule.

In an Aug. 12 memorandum, ICDEO head Roy Pacanan said the projects, undertaken by two of the country’s reported top contractors — St. Timothy Construction Corp. and Alpha & Omega General Contractor & Development Corp. — are currently under construction.

The two companies are linked to the Discaya family of Pasig City.

Iloilo City Mayor Treñas-Chu earlier alleged that the projects were either “non-functional, have caused flooding, or are, in some cases, practically non-existent.”

St. Timothy is handling three sections of flood mitigation structures in Barangay Bo. Obrero, Lapuz, with a combined contract value of PHP 403 million.

The contracts are set to expire between August and November this year. Reported accomplishment rates are:

1. Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure – Section 1 (98.83%)
2. Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure – Section 2, Lapuz, Iloilo City (95.82%)
3. Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure – Section 1, Iloilo City (51.47%)

ICDEO noted that the site previously showed erosion or scouring of the makeshift seawall.

Meanwhile, Alpha & Omega is implementing the Iloilo Comprehensive Flood Mitigation Project–Section 2 in Barangay Tacas, Jaro district, with a contract amount of PHP 145 million.

The project began in June 2025, is 35% complete, and is scheduled for completion by March 2026.

Pacanan urged the city mayor to verify information before making public statements.

“We must ensure that every statement is accurate, truthful, and responsible, because in our positions, even a single piece of misinformation can mislead the public and erode trust,” he said.

He also criticized delayed infrastructure projects under the city government, citing the slaughterhouse in Barangay Tacas, Jaro; the Iloilo City Hospital in Barangay San Pedro, Molo; and the rehabilitation of the Jaro Big Market.