A Senate committee is preparing to examine allegations of "ghost" infrastructure projects in Taguig City, following reports submitted by Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson. The blue ribbon committee, chaired by Senator Erwin Tulfo, will assess Lacson's findings to determine which allegations, witnesses, and specific projects require further scrutiny. Tulfo emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating the committee would act accordingly once Lacson provides his documentation. The inquiry could begin as early as next week, pending the outcome of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s State of the Nation Address on Monday. Lacson raised concerns about potential double appropriation in two P100-million allocations for a slope protection project in Taguig City. According to his recent social media post, these allocations appeared to cover the same project, suggesting one of them could be classified as a "ghost" project. Earlier, Lacson indicated that his team had identified at least two case studies involving suspected ghost infrastructure projects in Taguig, which falls within the political jurisdiction of Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano. Lacson previously highlighted multiple slope protection and drainage projects in Taguig, valued at approximately P100 million each, totaling P2.085 billion. These figures were drawn from what he claimed were P6.79 billion in budget insertions made by Cayetano under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Additionally, Lacson alleged that a Taguig City engineer had used two aliases in casinos, accumulating nearly P500 million in combined winnings and losses at a Metro Manila establishment. However, he has not yet publicly identified the individual or presented evidence to support these claims. Cayetano refuted the allegations, asserting that there were no ghost projects in Taguig City. During a Facebook live session, he challenged Lacson to investigate other highly urbanized cities such as Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Parañaque, rather than focusing solely on Taguig due to their personal feud. Cayetano claimed that the Office of the Ombudsman had already confirmed the absence of ghost projects in Taguig during an interview in 2025. His office had also conducted its own review of the city's projects and found no evidence of ghost projects. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has initiated an investigation into the alleged ghost infrastructure projects in Taguig City. NBI Director Melvin Matibag confirmed the agency's involvement during an ambush interview, citing previous projects in Taguig that were connected to the top 15 named contractors in 2022. Matibag noted that the timing of the investigation was coincidental but acknowledged the public nature of Lacson's claims. Cayetano expressed skepticism regarding the NBI's focus on Taguig's flood control projects, particularly given the agency's simultaneous investigation into alleged funding irregularities involving the New Clark City sports complex used during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. Cayetano, who chaired the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee, questioned the timing of the NBI's actions, especially considering Matibag's upcoming testimony in the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Lacson intensified the dispute by claiming that Cayetano belonged in the Payatas, Quezon City jail due to alleged corruption. This assertion followed Cayetano's claim that Lacson's and Senator Erwin Tulfo's net worth had more than doubled. Lacson denied the allegations, stating that his earnings were legitimate and derived from real estate dealings and other business ventures. He reiterated his commitment to gathering evidence to substantiate his claims against Cayetano. Lacson also disclosed that former congressman Lino Cayetano, the brother of Senators Alan and Pia Cayetano, had offered to assist in the investigation into alleged ghost projects in Taguig. Lino Cayetano, currently serving as the general manager of PTV 4, suggested he possessed knowledge of numerous ghost projects in the city. Lacson pledged to thoroughly investigate these claims without fabricating evidence. Cayetano responded to Lacson's allegations by highlighting that flooding was not a significant issue in Taguig City, unlike other areas in the Philippines and Metro Manila. He pointed out that Lacson had been photographed with members of the Discayas family, implying that the scrutiny should extend beyond Taguig. Despite these exchanges, Cayetano maintained that his office had verified the absence of ghost projects in the city, urging Lacson to broaden his investigation to include other urban centers.
10 reports
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 858 days agoA Senate panel led by Senator Erwin Tulfo plans to review findings from Senator Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson regarding alleged 'ghost' infrastructure projects in Taguig City. These projects involve suspiciously duplicated funding allocations, including potential double appropriations for a single slope protection project. Lacson has raised concerns about these issues, which fall within the political jurisdiction of Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano. Cayetano has denied the existence of such projects and challenged Lacson to provide evidence. The National Bureau of Investigation has initiated an inquiry based on Lacson's claims.
Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights investigations into alleged corruption and misuse of public funds, focusing on actions taken by a senator against another prominent figure in the political landscape. The framing emphasizes scrutiny of public spending and accountability, aligning with progressive values of cur
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports that the Senate blue ribbon committee may examine Lacson's findings and quotes Tulfo's statements. It aligns well with the primary source regarding the potential for an inquiry into alleged corruption.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a balanced perspective, quoting both Lacson and Tulfo without showing preference for either side in the unfolding situation.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8515 days ago WATCH: Matibag questions Pia Cayetano’s ‘possibly contemptible’ remarkNational Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag responded to Senator-judge Pia Cayetano's criticism of his decision to investigate alleged funding irregularities at the New Clark City sports complex used during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. Cayetano described the NBI's action as 'possibly contemptible,' which Matibag dismissed as more concerning than the investigation itself. He emphasized that the probe is separate from the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, which he is set to testify about before the Senate impeachment court on July 21. The exchange highlights tensions between judicial figures and executive oversight in the context of corruption allegations.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives—Cayetano's criticism and Matibag's defense—without overtly favoring one side. While the subject involves high-level political figures and potential corruption, the framing remains balanced by quoting both parties directly. There is no clear editorializing or sl
Why factuality (90): The article summarizes key developments in the impeachment trial, including the legal battle over financial records and the prosecution's arguments. It accurately reflects the primary source document's content and timeline.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting both sides of the legal dispute without taking a clear stance. It avoids emotional language and sticks to factual reporting.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 89Objective 7513 days ago Cayetano to Lacson: No ghost projects in Taguig; don’t single us outSenator Alan Peter Cayetano denied allegations by Senator Panfilo Lacson that there were 'ghost' flood control projects in Taguig City. Cayetano claimed that both the Office of the Ombudsman and his own office reviewed the city's projects and found no such issues. He challenged Lacson to investigate other highly urbanized cities instead of singling out Taguig, citing their ongoing feud. Lacson had previously accused Cayetano of being 'locked up' in Quezon City jail due to alleged corruption, to which Cayetano responded by accusing Lacson and Senator Erwin Tulfo of significantly increasing their net worth. The dispute escalated further as Lacson alleged that Cayetano had inserted P6.79 billion into the 2025 national budget, a claim Cayetano denied.
Bias read (Center): While the article covers a politically charged debate between two senators, it presents both perspectives without clear editorial favoritism. Cayetano defends himself against accusations of corruption and challenges Lacson's focus on Taguig, while Lacson accuses Cayetano of financial misconduct. The
Why factuality (89): The article accurately reports Cayetano's denial of the existence of ghost projects in Taguig and his challenge to Lacson to investigate other cities. It includes direct quotes and references to prior investigations, maintaining alignment with the cross-source consensus on the ongoing debate.
Why objectivity (75): The article presents Cayetano's arguments clearly but frames them in a way that challenges Lacson's motives, implying a personal vendetta. This subtle framing may influence the reader's understanding of the conflict.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 88Objective 7512 days ago NBI probes ‘ghost’ flood control projects in Cayetano bailiwick TaguigThe National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating alleged 'ghost' flood control projects in Taguig City, which is under the influence of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano. This follows claims by Senator Panfilo Lacson that these projects involved fraudulent activities. NBI Director Melvin Matibag confirmed the investigation, stating that 11 projects in 2022 were linked to top contractors. Cayetano has denied the allegations, accusing the NBI of focusing on unrelated issues like the 2019 SEA Games infrastructure, which he oversaw. He also criticized the timing of the investigation, noting that Matibag is set to testify in Vice President Sara Duterte's impeachment trial.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the investigation as a political move targeting Cayetano, highlighting his denial and criticism of the NBI's focus. It emphasizes Lacson's accusations and Cayetano's defense, suggesting a left-leaning perspective by portraying the investigation as politically motivated rather than
Why factuality (88): The article provides detailed information about the NBI's investigation into the 'ghost' projects in Taguig, including quotes from NBI Director Melvin Matibag. It references previous statements by Cayetano and connects the investigation to Lacson's claims. The reporting aligns with the cross-source
Why objectivity (75): While the article remains largely neutral, it emphasizes the seriousness of the investigation and the political implications, which could be seen as slightly biased. The focus on the NBI's actions and the potential consequences for Cayetano suggests a slight lean towards the investigative angle.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentConservativeFactual 87Objective 7013 days ago Lacson says Cayetano belongs in QC jail for alleged corruptionSenator Panfilo Lacson responded to claims by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano that Lacson's net worth had more than doubled, denying the allegations and asserting that his wealth comes from legitimate real estate and business ventures. Lacson accused Cayetano of corruption, citing alleged budget insertions totaling P6.79 billion in the 2025 national budget and suggesting there were ghost projects in Taguig City, which is Cayetano's district. Lacson stated he was gathering evidence to hold Cayetano accountable and mentioned past false accusations against him that were later retracted. The article notes that Cayetano has not yet commented on Lacson's remarks.
Bias read (Conservative): The article presents Senator Lacson's accusations against Senator Cayetano using strong language such as 'belongs in the Quezon City jail' and emphasizes Lacson's defense of his integrity while making specific allegations against Cayetano. The framing suggests a clear stance supporting Lacson's side
Why factuality (87): The article accurately captures Lacson's rebuttal to Cayetano's claims, including the specific figures regarding budget insertions and the status of the Taguig projects. It includes direct quotes and maintains consistency with the cross-source narrative of the ongoing controversy.
Why objectivity (70): The article frames the dispute in a way that emphasizes Lacson's integrity and Cayetano's alleged misconduct. While the facts are reported accurately, the tone subtly supports Lacson's position, which may affect the perceived neutrality of the piece.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentConservativeFactual 86Objective 7212 days ago Lacson to Cayetano: You belong in prisonSenator Panfilo Lacson accused Senator Alan Peter Cayetano of corruption and suggested he belongs in prison, responding to Cayetano's allegations against him. Lacson claimed that his wealth has grown significantly since leaving office, attributing it to legitimate real estate investments and business ventures. He criticized Cayetano for inserting P6.79 billion into the 2025 national budget and alleged the presence of 'ghost' projects in Taguig City, which Cayetano denied, citing the Office of the Ombudsman. Cayetano countered by challenging Lacson to examine other cities beyond Taguig and questioned why Lacson would make such claims unless he was personally affected by their feud.
Bias read (Conservative): The article presents a direct exchange between two senators, with Lacson using strong rhetoric suggesting Cayetano belongs in prison, which frames the situation as a personal attack rather than a balanced discussion of policy or governance. The emphasis on Lacson's financial growth and accusations,
Why factuality (86): The article accurately reflects Lacson's response to Cayetano's allegations, including his denial of the net worth doubling claim and his assertion that Cayetano belongs in jail for corruption. It includes direct quotes and contextualizes the dispute within the larger political landscape. The facts
Why objectivity (72): The language used by Lacson is strong and emotionally charged, suggesting a clear stance against Cayetano. While the article reports the content of his statements objectively, the overall tone supports Lacson's position, which may influence the reader's interpretation.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7512 days ago Lino Cayetano may testify on Taguig ‘ghost projects’ – LacsonSenator Panfilo Lacson announced that former Taguig Congressman Lino Cayetano, who is now the general manager of PTV4, may testify about alleged 'ghost projects' in Taguig City. These projects reportedly involved companies linked to the Discaya family during Alan Cayetano's tenure as House Speaker. Lacson stated that his office is investigating these matters and emphasized that he would not fabricate evidence. In response, Senator Alan Cayetano questioned why Taguig was under scrutiny while other areas in Metro Manila faced flooding issues. He noted that Lacson had previously been seen in photographs with the Discayas, suggesting potential bias in the investigation.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the situation without overtly favoring one perspective. It reports on Lacson's claim that Cayetano might testify about alleged ghost projects and includes Alan Cayetano's rebuttal questioning the focus on Taguig. The language remains neutral, avoiding loaded terms,
Why factuality (85): The article accurately describes the Senate blue ribbon committee's intention to review Lacson's findings and includes specific details about the double appropriation in Taguig. This aligns well with the primary source.
Why objectivity (75): The article remains largely neutral, focusing on procedural steps and statements from both Lacson and Tulfo. It avoids taking sides and presents the information in a balanced manner.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7012 days ago Cayetano tells Dizon to resist ‘pressure’ in Taguig project probeSenator Alan Peter Cayetano urged Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon to resist external pressure regarding allegations that some flood control projects in Taguig City linked to Cayetano were 'ghost projects.' Dizon stated he would order a DPWH district engineer to investigate Senator Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson's claims. Cayetano asserted that Dizon had previously confirmed there were no ghost projects in Taguig. Cayetano praised Dizon's determination but questioned why Dizon decided to verify the claim after Lacson raised it. The discussion arose amid Cayetano's comments about the increased net worth reported in the SALNs of Lacson and Senator Erwin Tulfo, which he presented as an example related to a broader legal issue involving Vice President Sara Duterte's financial records.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the controversy: Cayetano's defense of the flood control projects and Dizon's decision to investigate. While there is some emphasis on Cayetano's position, the reporting remains balanced by including Dizon's actions and Cayetano's clarification about using SALN net
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports Cayetano's statement urging Dizon not to yield to pressure regarding the Taguig flood control projects. It includes direct quotes from Cayetano and mentions the context of Lacson's allegations. However, it does not provide full details of the verification process or th
Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat confrontational, especially in Cayetano's remarks where he criticizes Lacson's approach. The article presents both sides but leans slightly toward Cayetano's perspective, particularly in the framing of Lacson's accusations as unfounded.
GMA News OnlineIndependentProgressiveFactual 80Objective 8010 days agoThe article reports that Senator Panfilo Lacson has mentioned at least two case studies related to 'ghost projects' in Taguig. These projects are described as initiatives that were allegedly started but not completed, potentially involving misuse of public funds. The statement was made during a discussion on issues affecting local governance and transparency.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue of 'ghost projects' as a matter of accountability and corruption, which aligns with progressive concerns about government transparency. While the article does not explicitly take a partisan stance, the focus on holding officials accountable and the implication of misused
Why factuality (80): The article states Lacson has identified at least two case studies but lacks specific details about what these case studies involve. This makes it less detailed compared to the primary source, which provides more context about the nature of the alleged anomalies.
Why objectivity (80): The article remains neutral in tone, simply stating facts without apparent bias towards either Lacson or Cayetano.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 7515 days ago DOJ, Palace backing NBI plan to dig up SEA Games hosting issueThe Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Philippine presidency have publicly supported the National Bureau of Investigation's (NBI) decision to re-open an investigation into alleged irregularities related to the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. This includes examining the P50-million cauldron and other infrastructure projects in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. The DOJ emphasized that the investigation is based on evidence and legal mandates rather than political motives or the ongoing impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and his sister Senator Pia Cayetano had previously criticized the probe, suggesting it might be an attempt to intimidate them as senator-judges in Duterte's impeachment case. However, both the DOJ and the Palace rejected these claims, stating that the NBI operates independently and that the investigation is focused on uncovering legitimate issues from 2019.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the positions of multiple stakeholders—DOJ, Palace, and Senators—without overtly favoring any side. It reports on the official stance of the DOJ and the Palace, which reject allegations of political motivation, and includes the concerns raised by the senators. There is no clear,
Why factuality (80): The article discusses the potential role of President Marcos in accessing Duterte's financial records, referencing past procedures. It aligns with the primary source document's context and provides relevant background information.
Why objectivity (75): The article slightly leans toward the prosecution's perspective by highlighting the importance of Marcos's involvement, though it remains largely neutral in its presentation.
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