The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Surigao del Norte has called for an investigation into alleged “ghost projects” in Siargao Island following claims by SP member John Cubilan that several Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects reported as completed were found missing, half-built, or nonexistent upon inspection. Cubilan highlighted issues with projects such as the rehabilitation of the Roxas-Sta. Paz Road, seawall construction in Barangay Bitaug, Burgos, and barangay road improvements in San Isidro. He also cited the abandoned Junction Surigao-Dapa-Del Carmen Road project, describing the situation as “systematic falsification.” The SP passed a resolution urging agencies like the DPWH, Commission on Audit, Ombudsman, and Department of Justice to investigate. Meanwhile, concerns were raised about cracks in concrete bridges in Surigao del Norte’s second district, particularly the Bonifacio-Poctoy Bridge linked to former congressman Robert Ace Barbers, who dismissed the reports as “fake news.” Additionally, complaints were raised about an unused irrigation project in San Mateo, Burgos, implemented by Boometrix Development Corporation, a firm tied to the Matugas family, which has been accused of poorly executed projects. Dapa Mayor Elizabeth Matugas clarified she severed ties with Boometrix after becoming mayor in 2013, asserting the company’s projects were not implemented in her jurisdiction.
