DoJ to probe Villar family over P18-B flood control projects – BusinessWorld Online
THE Department of Justice (DoJ) has expanded its investigation into alleged irregularities in flood control projects in Las Piñas involving lawmakers.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla on Wednesday said that the flood-control inquiry now covers former senator Cynthia A. Villar, Sen. Mark A. Villar, and Sen. Camille A. Villar over possible conflicts of interest.
Mr. Villar, who served as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) from 2016 to 2021, is being investigated for allegedly favoring a contractor said to be his first cousin.
“The contractor reportedly secured projects amounting to over P18 billion in Las Piñas alone. That raises questions that we need to examine,” Mr. Remulla told reporters.
The DoJ chief added that the senator will be given an opportunity to present his side and respond to the allegations.
He noted the case is among 67 flagged by Congress, with formal summons to Senator Mark Villar and others to follow once investigators firm up the records.
Mr. Remulla explained that the justice department’s review extends to relatives up to the fourth degree of consanguinity, a scope that includes former senator Cynthia A. Villar, described as a third-degree relation to the contractor, and Senator Camille A. Villar.
The Villars, among the most prominent political families in the country, have yet to issue a statement on the matter. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking
