MANILA — Following the filing of a joint verified complaint-affidavit against him, former Pangasinan 4th District Representative Christopher de Venecia, and others regarding purported ghost projects in the province, Sual, Pangasinan Mayor Dong Calugay denied involvement in flood control projects and all forms of corruption on Tuesday.
Calugay in a statement stated the claims against him are made up and have no basis.
“Huwag po tayong maniniwala sa taong gumagawa ng kwento para makapanira. Mga tao na ang hangarin lamang ay mag-imbento ng istorya para mang-harass at mang-blackmail dahil sa kasakiman,” the statement read.
The mayor went on to say that he is fighting corruption in all its manifestations as well as anyone involved to the flood control project.
“Ang mga paratang sa atin ay pawang gawa-gawa lamang at lahat ng ito ay walang basehan,” Calugay remarked.
Despite being marked as finished, the lawsuit claimed that Calugay and his wife Garly Macaranas Calugay of Bet Construction and Supply had not made any progress on projects in San Jacinto.
The projects are supposedly worth around P286 million.
Former Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Christopher de Venecia had earlier refuted charges, stating all projects under his term were “fully documented” and “properly executed.”
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The COA report, released last week, highlighted discrepancies in flood mitigation projects supposedly funded by the local government but whose actual execution remains questionable. Some projects, tagged as “ghost” or fictitious due to the lack of physical evidence or incomplete documentation, have sparked public concern and calls for accountability.
The mayor also emphasized ongoing efforts in his municipality to improve flood management, including real, ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at mitigating the seasonal flooding that affects several barangays.
Meanwhile, some local officials and opposition groups have urged for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the COA findings.
The Pangasinan Provincial Government has assured the public that it will coordinate with national agencies to verify all flood-related projects and ensure proper use of funds.
COA representatives have indicated plans to conduct further audits and field inspections to clarify inconsistencies.
Residents in flood-prone areas are watching closely, hoping for effective solutions to persistent flooding problems. Many have expressed frustration over delayed or incomplete projects and are demanding better oversight and accountability.
