Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced Thursday that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will begin filing cases within 40 to 60 days against individuals implicated in ghost infrastructure projects linked to widespread corruption in public works.

Speaking during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s resumed probe into flood control anomalies, Remulla confirmed that five cases have already been endorsed to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), while additional complaints from Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon have been forwarded directly to the Office of the Ombudsman.

“We make that commitment to the Filipino people. Hindi namin pababayaan ang kasong ito at we will pursue it to the very end,” Remulla declared.

The initial wave of cases will focus on ghost projects—those funded but never constructed—followed by investigations into substandard infrastructure. Remulla emphasized that the DOJ is also examining a broader conspiracy involving officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), contractors, legislators, and other individuals.

“This is like a conspiracy between some people from the DPWH, contractors, and legislators. And probably some other people also,” he said.

Remulla explained that due process requires time to build airtight cases, estimating 40 days as the fastest timeline and 60 days as a safer benchmark. The DOJ is currently issuing subpoenas, collecting affidavits, and preparing evidence.

He also addressed coordination with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), saying that while formal talks have yet to begin, collaboration is expected to prevent duplication of efforts.

“Madali na po iyon kasi kaibigan ko si Secretary Singson,” Remulla added, referring to former DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, a member of the ICI.

The DOJ’s commitment comes amid mounting public pressure for accountability in the wake of revelations about ghost flood control projects and other infrastructure anomalies. (PNA)