The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has struck again. This time, they secured a fresh freeze order from the Court of Appeals—covering a staggering 592 bank accounts tied to individuals and contractors linked to the controversial flood control projects.
The order, issued on September 19, goes beyond bank accounts. It also covers three insurance policies, 73 vehicles, and 18 properties believed to be connected to the massive irregularities.
This isn’t the first time. Earlier, the AMLC already froze 135 accounts and 27 insurance policies following a request from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
But this new order? It’s bigger. Much bigger.
Names Under Watch
While the full list of names wasn’t immediately released, the DPWH confirmed that 26 individuals linked to the scandal are also facing graft complaints before the Ombudsman.
“The sheer magnitude of assets involved reflects the alarming scope of corruption tied to these flood control projects,” said AMLC Executive Director Matthew David.
He added, “This freeze order marks another step toward the filing of civil and criminal cases against those who laundered illicit proceeds.”
A Web of Investigations
The crackdown doesn’t stop here. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is also running its own probe under the newly enforced Anti-Financial Scamming Act, which requires banks to hold suspicious funds for at least 30 days.
Meanwhile, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure has launched its own investigation. Chaired by former Supreme Court justice Andres Bernal Reyes Jr., the panel includes respected figures like former DPWH Secretary Rogelio “Babes” Singson, SGV and Co. managing partner Rossana Fajardo, and Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong as special adviser.
A Nation Watching Closely
Billions meant to protect communities from floods may have been siphoned off. Families who should have been shielded from rising waters were instead left vulnerable.
And now, with every account frozen and every property flagged, the fight to hold the powerful accountable inches forward.
