PACC Confirms No Ghost Project in Camiguin; Delay Caused by Right-of-Way Issues
Camiguin Island — October 21, 2025.
The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC), led by Chairman Dr. Louie F. Ceniza, PhD, together with President VADM Andres C. Visaya (PCRGA), Spiritual Adviser Bishop Rod Cubos, and Board of Trustee Member Pastor Richie Cubos, conducted an ocular inspection of the Hubangon Bridge II River Control Project in Mahinog, Camiguin Island.
The Hubangon Bridge II River Control Project is a vital flood-mitigation infrastructure funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), with a total contract cost of ₱85,234,756.16, awarded to Sheen-Sheen Construction Corporation.
Implementation began on February 12, 2025, with a scheduled completion date of September 27, 2025, under the supervision of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Camiguin District Engineering Office, headed by District Engineer Alberto Cainghog.
Contrary to earlier online claims labeling it a “ghost project,” the PACC’s on-site verification confirmed that the project exists, is visible, and is actively ongoing. The delay was caused by legitimate Road Right-of-Way (ROW) issues, not by neglect or misuse of government funds.
According to District Engineer Alberto Cainghog, progress was temporarily stalled when a private landowner barred the entry of heavy equipment into the project area, blocking access to the upstream section of the river. This unforeseen situation required a contract time suspension — a lawful and standard measure under government procurement regulations — to pause the project timeline until site access was restored, thereby safeguarding public funds and ensuring compliance with due process.
By August 2025, the contractor successfully negotiated an alternative access route through the downstream area near the seashore, which allowed work to resume. During the PACC inspection, major portions of the downstream revetment structure were observed to be substantially completed, while preparations were underway for the upstream construction, with the contractor already developing a temporary access road to facilitate the transport of materials and equipment to the site.
The PACC commended the DPWH Camiguin District Engineering Office, under District Engineer Alberto Cainghog, for its professionalism, transparency, and accountability in managing the project and for its openness in engaging with the public.
“We expose anomalies where they exist, but we also believe in recognizing good governance when we see it. DPWH Camiguin has shown honesty and diligence in managing this project, and that deserves commendation,” said PACC Chairman Dr. Louie F. Ceniza, PhD.
The PACC team acknowledged the district’s full cooperation in providing documents, facilitating site access, and offering clear technical explanations — actions that reflect the agency’s integrity and strong commitment to public service.
The Philippine Anti-Corruption Czar (PACC) reaffirms its role as a volunteer-driven organization composed of lawyers, engineers, auditors, accountants, and forensic investigators dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in public works.
While PACC continues to expose and investigate substandard or anomalous projects, it likewise recognizes and commends agencies and contractors that uphold high standards of good governance.
This balanced approach strengthens public trust and fosters a culture of responsibility, honesty, and ethical leadership in the implementation of government infrastructure projects — for the benefit of the Filipino people.