SURIGAO DEL NORTE – A P87 million flood control structure in Surigao del Norte has collapsed, becoming the latest high-profile failure amid the nationwide scandal over substandard and “ghost” flood mitigation projects that have plagued the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The incident, reported in late 2025, highlights ongoing issues of poor construction, erosion, and alleged corruption, with residents and watchdogs demanding accountability as communities remain vulnerable to flooding.
While exact details on the specific project’s location and collapse date vary in reports (some citing Kinabutan River reinforcements or Malimono structures), the P87 million figure aligns with flagged initiatives in the province declared “complete” yet showing early deterioration—slopes eroding, revetments breaking, and reinforcements failing under pressure from river currents or minor weather events. Residents in affected barangays like Masgad (Malimono) and Surigao City areas have reported the structures giving way, exacerbating flood risks in a region prone to heavy rains.
The collapse echoes broader complaints escalated to the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) in December 2025, where Surigao del Norte’s 2nd District projects—totaling over P5 billion—were cited for being unfinished, substandard, or non-existent despite funds disbursed. Specific mentions include flood mitigation in Malimono (P85.9-P260 million ranges) with collapsed slopes and debris-filled channels.
DPWH officials have yet to issue a detailed response on this P87 million case, but Secretary Vince Dizon has previously slammed delays and anomalies in Surigao projects, ordering investigations into contractors allegedly linked to local politicians.
This failure fuels the national flood control controversy, where billions in allocations have yielded “ghost dikes” and crumbling barriers, leaving lives and livelihoods exposed. As probes continue, calls grow for COA audits and criminal charges to prevent further “washed away” public funds.
Related Project Issues in Surigao del Norte (2025 Reports):
| Project/Example | Value (Approx.) | Issue Reported |
|---|---|---|
| Flood Mitigation, Malimono | P85.9M-P260M | Slopes collapsed, unfinished |
| Kinabutan River Controls | P192.9M | Reinforcement collapsed, erosion |
| Sitio Sangay Flood Control | P98.4M | No visible work despite funds |