Senator Alan Peter Cayetano denied allegations that there were ghost flood control projects in Taguig City, accusing Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson of singling him out due to their ongoing feud. Cayetano asserted that the Office of the Ombudsman had already confirmed there were no such projects in Taguig, and that his own office had independently reviewed the city’s projects and found no discrepancies. During a Facebook Live session, Cayetano directly addressed Lacson’s claims, challenging him to investigate other highly urbanized cities like Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Parañaque rather than focusing solely on Taguig. He suggested that Lacson’s actions were motivated by personal animosity rather than genuine concern for public accountability. Lacson, in turn, responded by accusing Cayetano of making P6.79 billion in budget insertions under the 2025 national budget, claiming that only P75 million remained unspent. He argued that Cayetano’s actions had led to mismanagement of public funds and called for a thorough investigation. Lacson also reiterated his belief that there were ghost projects in Taguig, asserting that Cayetano’s influence had resulted in improper spending. His comments were accompanied by a veiled threat, suggesting that Cayetano deserved to be incarcerated for alleged corruption, referencing a past accusation that he should be placed in Quezon City jail. The escalating conflict between the two senators intensified after Cayetano accused Lacson and Sen. Erwin Tulfo of having their net worth increase by more than double. Lacson refuted these claims, stating that his net worth had actually quadrupled, citing legitimate business ventures and real estate transactions. He emphasized that his financial gains were lawful and that Cayetano’s accusations were politically motivated. Lacson also highlighted that he had never engaged in budget insertions since becoming a senator, contrasting his conduct with Cayetano’s. In response to Lacson’s allegations, Cayetano maintained that there were no ghost projects in Taguig and reiterated that the Ombudsman had previously ruled against such claims. He urged Lacson to broaden his scrutiny beyond Taguig, arguing that the senator’s focus on him was driven by a personal vendetta rather than a commitment to transparency. Cayetano also criticized Lacson for publicly accusing him of corruption without presenting concrete evidence, calling the senator’s approach confrontational and unfounded. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, who oversees infrastructure projects, was drawn into the controversy when Lacson requested that he verify the existence of ghost projects in Taguig. Dizon indicated that he had already confirmed multiple times that no such projects existed, maintaining that the city’s flood control initiatives were fully funded and executed. Despite this, Lacson insisted that Dizon should conduct an independent verification, raising questions about the credibility of the current investigations. Dizon, however, expressed confidence in his ability to handle the inquiry, emphasizing that he would follow established procedures to ensure accuracy. Meanwhile, the administration has taken a firm stance against Cayetano’s claims, with Palace Press Officer Claire Castro dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. She accused Cayetano of using false narratives to divert attention from his own shortcomings, particularly his failure to deliver on key legislative proposals. Castro also noted that even former President Rodrigo Duterte, who was once a political ally of Lacson, had not supported Cayetano’s efforts to push for cash assistance programs. The Palace has pledged to present evidence countering Cayetano’s assertions, reinforcing its position that the senator’s claims lacked factual support. As tensions continue to mount, both senators have positioned themselves as defenders of public accountability, each accusing the other of exploiting the situation for personal gain. With the Senate blue ribbon committee set to examine the allegations, the outcome of this dispute could have broader implications for political dynamics within the legislature. Meanwhile, the ongoing investigation into the 2019 SEA Games remains a point of contention, with Cayetano’s remarks about NBI Director Melvin Matibag drawing criticism for their inflammatory nature. As the debate unfolds, the focus remains on the integrity of public resources and the role of political adversaries in shaping policy outcomes.
9 reports
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 89Objective 753 days agoSenator 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 752 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 703 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 723 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 702 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.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 82Objective 702 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 (82): The article accurately reports Lino Cayetano's offer to assist in the investigation, as stated by Lacson. It includes direct quotes and contextualizes the situation within the broader political conflict between Lacson and Cayetano. The information aligns with the cross-source consensus on the ongoin
Why objectivity (70): The article presents the information in a way that highlights Lacson's efforts to gather evidence, which could be interpreted as supportive of his position. There is a subtle emphasis on the credibility of Lacson's claims, potentially influencing the reader's perception.
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenternow INQToday: Signal No. 1 in 13 Luzon areas due to Tropical Depression KiyapoTropical Depression Kiyapo prompted the state weather bureau to issue Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 for 13 areas in Northern Luzon on July 23. This warning indicates potential winds of up to 60 kilometers per hour, prompting residents to prepare for possible disruptions. Meanwhile, Senator Ping Lacson raised concerns about alleged 'double appropriation' in a Taguig City slope protection project, pointing out two P100-million allocations that seem to cover the same work, suggesting one might be fraudulent. Separately, CDN Digital maintained its position as Cebu’s leading news website in the first half of 2026, securing nearly half of the region’s online news traffic.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a tropical depression affecting multiple regions, which is primarily a meteorological event. However, it also includes a political element regarding a senator's claim of financial mismanagement in a public works project. The article presents both developments neutrally, citing
Philippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressive1 hr. ago Lacson flags ‘double appropriation’ for same Taguig slope projectSenator Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson has raised concerns about potential 'double appropriation' in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), specifically pointing out two P100-million allocations that seem to fund the same slope protection project in Taguig City. He claims that these duplications suggest the presence of 'ghost' projects—funds allocated for projects that do not exist or are not being implemented. Lacson highlighted that out of P6.79 billion in budget insertions for Taguig, 68 out of 70 projects had been implemented, while two involving P75 million remained unreleased or unobligated. The allegations have sparked a public dispute between Lacson and Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, who denies the existence of ghost projects in Taguig and challenges Lacson to investigate other cities as well. The National Bureau of Investigation has initiated an inquiry into the matter.
Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights Senator Lacson's accusations against projects in Taguig, which is the political domain of Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano. The framing emphasizes the potential misuse of funds and the existence of 'ghost' projects, suggesting scrutiny of government spending and the揭
GMA News OnlineIndependentProgressiveyesterdayThe 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
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