BIR Joins Probe into Alleged Flood Control Project Irregularities
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has officially joined the investigation into alleged anomalies surrounding several flood control projects across the country. BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. announced the bureau’s involvement on Wednesday, signaling a broader effort to ensure transparency and fiscal accountability in government infrastructure spending. The move comes amid growing public concern over delayed implementation and questionable procurement practices tied to these projects.
As part of the probe, the BIR will examine the financial status of the flood control initiatives and scrutinize the tax compliance of contractors involved. This includes verifying whether companies have accurately declared income, paid appropriate taxes, and followed procurement regulations. Commissioner Lumagui emphasized that the bureau’s role is not only to enforce tax laws but also to safeguard public funds from potential misuse.
The flood control projects, originally designed to mitigate seasonal flooding and protect vulnerable communities, have faced criticism due to reports of substandard construction and irregular bidding processes. Watchdog groups and local officials have raised red flags, prompting calls for a multi-agency investigation. The BIR’s entry into the probe adds a crucial layer of financial oversight, complementing ongoing reviews by the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Civil society organizations have welcomed the BIR’s involvement, viewing it as a step toward restoring public trust. “This is about protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that infrastructure projects serve the people, not private interests,” said a spokesperson from Citizens for Transparent Governance. The group urged authorities to pursue accountability without delay and to publish findings for public review.
Moving forward, the BIR is expected to coordinate closely with other agencies to cross-reference project expenditures with tax filings. Depending on the results, contractors found to be non-compliant may face penalties, administrative sanctions, or criminal charges. As the investigation unfolds, the public continues to demand transparency, integrity, and meaningful reform in the handling of government infrastructure projects.
