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Lacson flags ‘double appropriation’ for same Taguig slope project
PH🏛️ PoliticsCenter10 days ago

Lacson flags ‘double appropriation’ for same Taguig slope project

Senator 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.

Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson has presented fresh evidence suggesting potential fraud and mismanagement in infrastructure projects within Taguig City, a region overseen by Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano. According to Lacson, some projects appear to have been double-billed using identical photographs, while others reportedly received multiple budget allocations despite being the same physical work. These findings come amid an ongoing public dispute between Lacson and Cayetano, who has denied the existence of so-called "ghost" projects in Taguig. Lacson detailed two instances where different projects allegedly used the same image for billing. In one case, two separate projects with distinct technical specifications and locations were billed using the same photograph. Another instance involved a single slope protection project receiving two separate budget allocations. Both cases resulted in billing and collection, according to Lacson's social media posts. Additionally, Lacson highlighted a situation where a single slope protection project in Taguig City seemingly received two P100-million allocations, suggesting that one of the two might be classified as a ghost project. His team identified three additional P100-million slope protection projects under the 2025 General Appropriations Act, increasing the total value of the Taguig projects being examined from P2.085 billion to P2.385 billion. Lacson has consistently maintained that his investigation into these matters is progressing, with the number of potentially problematic projects growing. He has also indicated that he plans to present further evidence to the Office of the Ombudsman, which could lead to a formal investigation into possible violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, including charges of plunder and malversation. Cayetano, who has faced criticism over the alleged misuse of public funds, has denied the existence of ghost projects in Taguig. He has challenged Lacson to conduct similar investigations in other parts of Metro Manila rather than focusing solely on Taguig. Cayetano expressed willingness to address the allegations in the appropriate legal forum but emphasized the need for due process. The National Bureau of Investigation has initiated an examination of the alleged ghost infrastructure projects in Taguig based on Lacson's claims. Some of the projects under scrutiny date back to 2019 and 2020, when Cayetano held the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives. Lacson has also drawn comparisons between the alleged anomalies in Taguig and those previously discovered in Bulacan, suggesting that similar tactics have been employed in both regions. He has vowed to continue submitting evidence to the Ombudsman to aid their efforts in combating graft and corruption. As the situation unfolds, the Senate blue ribbon committee, led by Senator Erwin Tulfo, has indicated that it may review Lacson's findings once they are formally submitted. This development adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the infrastructure projects in Taguig City.

9 reports

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8511 days ago
Lacson posts update on ‘ghost’ project search

Senator Panfilo Lacson has revealed new evidence suggesting potential fraud in infrastructure projects in Taguig City. He highlighted cases where two different projects used the same photo for billing, and another instance where a single slope protection project reportedly received two separate budget allocations. Lacson described these as 'criminal acts' and indicated that his team has compiled further evidence against alleged irregularities in infrastructure spending under Senator Alan Peter Cayetano's jurisdiction. Attempts to contact Cayetano for comment were unsuccessful.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual claims made by Senator Lacson regarding alleged fraudulent activities in infrastructure projects without overtly favoring either side. It does not include explicit endorsements or criticisms of any political figure beyond quoting Lacson's concerns and noting that Cayetao

Why factuality (95): The article accurately presents Lacson's claims about 'double appropriation' in Taguig slope projects. Specific figures and details match those mentioned in other articles, indicating strong factual consistency. The reference to the 2025 GAA and the P2.085B figure aligns with other reports.

Why objectivity (85): The article remains largely neutral in tone, reporting facts without overt bias. However, the phrasing 'flags a possible double appropriation' introduces a slight interpretive angle, which could be seen as a minor deviation from strict neutrality.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 8514 days ago
Lacson hints anew at more ‘damning evidence’ in Taguig infra projects

Senator Panfilo Lacson has indicated that his investigation into alleged 'ghost' infrastructure projects in Taguig City has uncovered more 'damning evidence,' suggesting the scope of the case is expanding. His remarks come amid ongoing tensions with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, whose wife serves as Taguig's mayor, and who has denied the existence of such projects. Lacson highlighted potential double appropriations involving two P100-million allocations for the same slope protection project, increasing the total value of the projects under scrutiny to P2.385 billion. The investigation follows renewed scrutiny of the controversial 'kaldero' (cooking pot) cauldron built for the 2019 SEA Games, which was linked to Cayetano's former leadership of the organizing body.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the investigation as a legitimate pursuit of corruption, emphasizing Lacson's efforts to expose 'ghost' projects and challenge Cayetano's denial. The language suggests a critical stance toward political figures involved in infrastructure spending, aligning with left-leaning media.

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports Sen. Lacson's statements about 'damning evidence' and the ongoing investigation into Taguig infrastructure projects. It provides specific quotes from Lacson and contextualizes the situation within the public feud with Cayetano. The claims align with those made in other

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone, presenting facts and direct quotes from Lacson without overtly favoring either side. However, phrases like 'escalating public feud' may subtly imply conflict rather than neutrality, slightly reducing objectivity.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 8515 days ago
Lacson flags ‘double appropriation’ for same Taguig slope project

Senator 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

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports Cayetano's denial of ghost projects in Taguig and his invitation for others to verify the projects firsthand. This aligns with other accounts of his response to Lacson's allegations. The content is consistent with the broader narrative presented in other articles.

Why objectivity (85): The article presents Cayetano's position objectively, using direct quotes and avoiding overt commentary. The tone remains neutral, though the framing of the situation as a 'public feud' might introduce a subtle bias.

Philippine Daily Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 89Objective 7519 days ago
Cayetano to Lacson: No ghost projects in Taguig; don’t single us out

Senator 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 Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentProgressiveFactual 88Objective 7518 days ago
NBI probes ‘ghost’ flood control projects in Cayetano bailiwick Taguig

The 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 Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentConservativeFactual 87Objective 7019 days ago
Lacson says Cayetano belongs in QC jail for alleged corruption

Senator 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 Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentConservativeFactual 86Objective 7218 days ago
Lacson to Cayetano: You belong in prison

Senator 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 Inquirer logoPhilippine Daily InquirerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7018 days ago
Cayetano tells Dizon to resist ‘pressure’ in Taguig project probe

Senator 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.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 6510 days ago
Lacson takes flood control evidence vs Taguig projects to Ombudsman

Senator Panfilo Lacson has submitted evidence to the Office of the Ombudsman alleging irregularities in flood control projects in Taguig City, which he claims are linked to Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano. The allegations include potential double billing, duplicate funding, and the use of recycled photographs to support billing claims. Cayetano, whose wife serves as Taguig's mayor, denies the claims and calls for investigations into similar issues across Metro Manila. Both politicians have exchanged accusations recently, with Lacson accusing Cayetano of undermining his reputation and Cayetano emphasizing the need for accountability while cautioning against 'malicious claims.'

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the allegations as part of a broader campaign against corruption, aligning with progressive narratives critical of political elites. While both parties are named, the emphasis on systemic fraud and the portrayal of Cayetano as a central figure in corrupt practices leans left. The蓮

Why factuality (75): The article reports on Senator Lacson submitting evidence to the Ombudsman regarding alleged irregularities in flood control projects in Taguig City. It mentions specific allegations such as double billing and duplicate funding, and references Cayetano's denial and call for investigations. While the

Why objectivity (65): The tone is somewhat adversarial, presenting Lacson's allegations as credible and Cayetano's response as defensive. There is a slight bias towards Lacson's position, though not overtly partisan. The language suggests a narrative favoring accountability, which may influence reader perception.

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