MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson on Wednesday said there is “no turning back” in his investigation into alleged “ghost” infrastructure projects in Taguig City, claiming his team has documented at least two questionable projects linked to the 2025 national budget.
In a post on X, Lacson said his team had identified at least two case studies involving slope protection and drainage projects worth more than P100 million each. He alleged the projects were part of Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano’s P6.79 billion budget insertions under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“Taguig ghost infra projects update: We have documented at least two case studies so far,” Lacson wrote.
Earlier, Lacson said he was gathering documentary and testimonial evidence involving 70 infrastructure projects in Taguig City, claiming 68 had already been implemented.
“Only two projects, equivalent to around P75 million, are left unreleased or unobligated. In short, a total of P6.715 billion was spent. While you do the math, we will keep digging,” he said.
Lacson and Cayetano have traded accusations in recent days. Cayetano questioned the alleged increase in Lacson’s net worth, while Lacson insisted his wealth came from legitimate sources and said several informants and witnesses were prepared to provide evidence against Cayetano.
Lacson also claimed that one of the individuals willing to testify about the alleged ghost projects was Cayetano’s brother, Lino Cayetano.
The Inquirer sought comment from Sen. Cayetano through his media officer but had not received a response as of publication.
In an earlier Facebook livestream, Cayetano denied the allegations and challenged Lacson to present evidence.
“If you can show one, someone should be held accountable,” Cayetano said.
The National Bureau of Investigation has also launched an investigation into the alleged Taguig ghost projects following Lacson’s claims.
Meanwhile, Sen. Erwin Tulfo, chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, said the panel would resume its inquiry into alleged flood control anomalies and that Lino Cayetano would be invited to testify.