PNP reaffirms integrity in crackdown on ghost infrastructure projects

The Philippine National Police (PNP), led by acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., has reaffirmed its commitment to integrity and justice as it takes a frontline role in exposing and prosecuting ‘ghost projects’ in public infrastructure.

Speaking during the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) High Command Conference on November 12, 2025, Nartatez stressed that the PNP’s mandate goes beyond maintaining peace and order. It is equally responsible for defending truth, safeguarding public trust, and ensuring that corruption has no place in government.

The conference brought together key officials from the Office of the Ombudsman, Department of Justice (DoJ), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the PNP to coordinate efforts against fraudulent public works projects. 

Investigators and inspection teams—composed of engineers, lawyers, and technical experts—have been deployed nationwide to verify project legitimacy, with non-bailable cases against more than 40 individuals expected to be filed soon before the Sandiganbayan.

“As protectors of the law and defenders of truth, it is our duty to ensure that every investigation is conducted with integrity and fairness. We will not yield to any influence or compromise,” Nartatez said, underscoring the PNP’s resolve to support the joint probe with intelligence, forensic analysis, and investigative work.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño echoed this commitment, noting that the PNP’s investigative and intelligence units are working closely with ICI and partner agencies to uncover the full extent of the anomaly. “Each piece of information we gather brings us closer to uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability,” he said.

DPWH Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon, meanwhile, commended the strong inter-agency cooperation that has strengthened the nationwide verification effort.

For Nartatez, integrity is not merely a slogan but a standard that guides the Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas—an organization defined by sincerity, discipline, and unwavering public service.Through its united efforts with the ICI, Ombudsman, DoJ, NBI, AFP, and DPWH, the PNP stands firm in its mission to uphold justice, accountability, and the trust of the Filipino people. TRACY CABRERA