ICI Issues Subpoenas in Expanding Flood Control Probe

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure has begun issuing subpoenas to key individuals as part of its widening investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro.

The move follows testimony presented before the Sandiganbayan by Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito Dolor, who appeared as a prosecution witness.

In his statement, Dolor affirmed that the P289.5-million flood control project in Naujan allegedly used substandard materials and failed to meet required specifications. He described the structures in Barangay San Andres as “hindi aktuwal na proyekto” and “pag-aaksaya sa salapi ng taumbayan.”

Dolor’s testimony reinforced earlier audit findings and bolstered graft and malversation charges filed against officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways Region IV-B and private contractor Sunwest Corporation.

ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka earlier said the commission is carefully building its cases to ensure strong evidence before filing formal complaints.

As part of the probe, a subpoena duces tecum was served in November 2025 to Naujan Mayor Henry Joel Teves, requiring the submission of construction permits related to the flood control projects. The mayor responded that no such applications were filed with the local government.

More subpoenas are expected to be issued as the investigation continues to expand.