Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor has intensified his appeal for national government backing in his crusade against substandard flood control projects, days before a Senate investigation into the allegedly defective infrastructure begins Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
The provincial chief executive’s renewed plea comes after his criticism of “ampaw” (hollow) flood control infrastructure went viral nationally, dredging widespread public outrage over government project quality.
“Muli, nananawagan tayo sa Pamahalaang Nasyonal na tumindig kasama natin,” Dolor said in a Facebook post, noting that this fight extends beyond his province’s borders.
The governor stressed that the battle represents “laban ng buong bansa sa korapsyon” (the entire nation’s fight against corruption), not merely a local grievance.
Dolor’s frustration became public after he inspected a flood-control project in Naujan town over the weekend, expressing dismay at its deteriorated state.
His pointed criticism of the infrastructure quality — “Wala hong flood na mapipigilan nang ganitong klaseng gawa. Konting semento na nga lang, tinipid pa” (No flood can be prevented with this kind of work. Even the little cement used was skimped on).
The governor’s viral moment occurred during an ABS-CBN News report that brought national attention to the infrastructure issues plaguing the province.
BLUE RIBBON INVESTIGATION
Senator Rodante Marcoleta, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, will launch hearings into alleged corruption in flood control projects Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Senate session hall.
Marcoleta acknowledged the investigation’s scope is daunting, given the billions of pesos involved in these infrastructure projects.
“Sa Martes uumpisahan ko na yung flood control investigation sa Blue Ribbon. Medyo challenging yan, mahirap talaga sa laki ng problemang kinakaharap natin d’yan,” the senator said.
The investigation will target not only contractors but also government officials allegedly profiting from substandard projects that worsen flooding in affected communities.
“Kaya nga yung quality, yung integrity, ng ginawang project ay talagang nasasakripisyo,” Marcoleta said, noting how project quality and integrity are being sacrificed.
The senator encouraged contractors to come forward and expose officials accepting bribes, while also calling on the public to submit evidence and information that could help resolve the cases.
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